While it is too early for an adolescent to make a definitive commitment to any vocation, all young Catholics have an obligation by their baptism to be open to and willing to explore what their personal calling may be, whether within the priesthood, religious life, married or committed single life.
Besides the lived example of our faculty and staff, students are provided various opportunities to discern their vocation. St. Lawrence observes the World Day of Prayer for Vocations in April and the Week of Prayer for Vocations in January. The juniors spend a discernment day at St. Joseph Seminary and St. Clare Friary in Chicago. Seniors interested in the Capuchin Order are invited to spend a weekend in Chicago at St. Clare Friary.
Vocation Directors from various dioceses, as well as the Capuchin Vocation Directors, are always welcome to meet with students and celebrate Mass with our community.
Many students leave St. Lawrence Seminary to further discern their calling at many collegiate-level seminaries, including, but not limited to: Loyola University in Chicago, St. John Vianney Seminary, University of St. Thomas, and St. Xavier Seminary.
SLS was an important part of my discernment. Especially important to me was the relationship and the strong bond I formed with my spiritual director, who was instrumental in encouraging me to pursue my vocation. Regular access to the Sacraments, confession and opportunities for prayer were very important for me. Opportunities to be of service were also great ways to put faith into action.
Michael Radowicz, Class of 1996
Regular mass and active participation in liturgy through music and sacrament helped my faith journey. I am very active in my own parish today. Regular personal and creative forms of prayer were also wonderful aspects of my faith formation at SLS.
Brian Loebig, Class of 1984
