After an annual 10-day spiritual exercise at the Queen of Apostles’ Retreat House in Yeoju, Gyeonggi Province, I joined a local vocation meeting in Seoul.
On the first day of the meeting, 14 of us who are involved in the vocation ministry in local communities shared our stories as well as the realities and situations of each area.
On the morning of the second day, we listened to a special lecture on the practical method of dialogue in the Holy Spirit. The theme of the lecture was how to live the spirit of synodality in our daily life. We pondered practical ways to change and transform our ways of thinking and life patterns.
In the afternoon, the preparation team presented youth program guides that can be used in local communities in each diocese. In between, we watched several video clips that helped us understand the characteristics of today’s youth, especially Generation Z.
After sharing new programs that each of us planned for the year 2026, we prayed together.
Living in a small local community, I just accepted the title of vocation manager for community programs. I know well enough that I am not a dynamic fit in that field. Sometimes our roles go beyond individual capability. Some of us are given many roles for the good of the community.
I was not active in the beginning. What I could do was pray for vocations. It was only after my pilgrimage last summer that my perspective began to change. I became more open-minded and flexible.
Meditation on the miracle story of five loaves and two fish helped me offer what I have, even if it is little or lacking. Just sharing what I can and entrusting everything, I believe that God’s providence will take care of the rest. Marvelous gifts and blessings are always given when we are willing to entrust ourselves with a grateful heart.
There are many things that I can’t do by myself, but there are always powerful and marvelous helping hands around me. Assistance comes from the good intentions and intercessions of angels both in heaven and on earth, as well as the constant prayers of our families and acquaintances.
One sister who knows me well laughed at me when I participated in the vocation meeting. Perhaps she thought of me being unfit for such a role. With humility, I recognize and accept myself as I am. But the power of prayer and grace is much greater than the standards and limits set by humans.
Source: Korea Times News
