I have been in a sacramental marriage for 10 years now…why do I feel such a strong urge that God would be calling me to be a priest?
I know this is not possible, so it must just be my own thoughts and my own self doing the ‘calling’…
Not sure what to think about it actually…should I try and become a priest in the Eastern Rite Catholic Church, or just say nope God can’t be doing this and go on?
Any ideas?
First, you should discuss this with your priest. He will be able to work with you to find the root of this calling. It could be a calling towards something else, and you’re not getting the right message. If that makes sense.
How much thought or research have you given this, or is it more of a romantic idea?
How much do you know about the eastern rites? I ask only because it’s not like you
decide to go to seminary and that’s that. You would have to get a rite transfer, which is difficult even when you have to correct a wrong from when you were a baby (my husband had to do this), never mind “I want to be a priest, but I’m married.” as someone who is eastern rite, I find your suggestion if going that route a little disrespectful. The eastern rite isn’t the “good cop” to run to when the “bad cop” (RC church) says no. It’s not the runner up option.
Then, you have to be accepted into seminary, which would be difficult if you’re new to your rite, since you need recommendations, need to be involved with a parish, etc.
In MOST cases (I’m talking 99% here), you have to be in Europe to be ordained as a
married man, then hope you get a US assignment. Unless you go Ukranian Cathiolic, but even still, in that case there is probably a language barrier and the skepticism of the church elders.
Additionally, since you’re married, your wife needs to be on board with this. My husband is
discerning the deaconate, and wives are interviewed in the same manner as the husbands, since it’s a change in the family life.
I hope you find your calling!
