Why would I want to become a religious?

[joyfullsoul]

I have always wanted since a young age to dedicate my life to God, and felt drawn towards the religious life.

During a recent visit to a religious community, the Prior asked why I wanted to become a religious, when I said I felt that God was calling me, he asked why. I told him that I had not questioned it before and was told untill I have the answer, the religious life may not be for me.

I am 32 and if I am not understanding God’s calling and do not enter in to the religious life; then do I need to consider matrimony, even if it means a loveless marriage between man and woman.

I am very confused as all my siblings are married or on the verge of getting married; so unless I am accepted, will I have to choose that path, even if it is not the path I choose.

 

[Fr.Vincent_Serpa]

Hi,

No one MUST get married and no one MUST enter religious life. Also, to move in either direction simply because one does not feel called to the other is not a good enough reason.

I too felt drawn to religious life since I was a child. As an adult I wanted to worship God with my life. I was drawn to the choral recitation of the Divine Office. I was drawn by the thought of the sacrifices involved. I liked everything about the order I was attracted to. To this day I cannot explain why—anymore than my father could explain why he wanted to marry my mother and not any number of other women. Ultimately, one’s vocation is a mystery because each one of us is a mystery.

You are in our prayers.

Fr. Vincent Serpa, O.P.