Is it advisable to date while discerning a religious vocation?

[Tally_Marx]

If one is not sure whether or not they should become a religious, would it be within their best interest to date while they are in the early stages of discerning (i.e., not yet in the seminary, but merely thinking about it)? They are in a real relationship with someone whom they truly like, and are not dating merely for recreational purposes/peer pressure/etc. Would it help such a person in their discernment, or would it create a distraction for them?

Thank you greatly for your time and any help you may have to offer!

Pax,
~Tally

 

[Fr.Vincent_Serpa]

Hi,

When in discernment, one needs to be in a neutral mode. The dating you mention does not seem to be neutral. It is not easy to seriously consider living as a celibate while at the same time focusing on the married state. Considering religious life needs some space of its own.

You are in my prayers.

Fr. Vincent Serpa, O.P.