Religious communities have much to offer, especially to young adults

Appears in: Archdiocesan News
When I received a phone call from Sister Mary Clare Stack inviting me to a conference that would bring together both religious and lay people from across Canada to discuss vocations, my first thought was, “That is exactly what I need! .”
Four representatives from the Archdiocese took part in the National Association of Vocation and Formation Directors (NAVFD) Canada Conference in St. John’s, Newfoundland Sept. 22-25. Among them were Sr. Mary Clare Stack, U.J., and Sr. Lynda J. Ates, S.A., as well as nurse Dany Bazira and student Thomas Corrigan. In this series, they share their reflections.
What Sister Mary Clare didn’t know was that I had been seeking opportunities to connect with fellow Catholics — to share our personal journeys with God, and to engage more deeply in fellowship, prayer, and adoration in my daily life. The National Association of Vocation and Formation Directors Conference offered all of that — and more.
Attending the conference opened my eyes to the rich diversity of religious orders in Canada. I was particularly drawn to learning about their unique charisms and hearing directly from sisters and brothers about how they live out those charisms in their everyday lives.
The energy, wisdom, and above all, the joy that radiated from each person was a powerful reminder of the vital role religious communities play in our parishes—and how much they have to offer, especially to young adults.
What stood out to me most were the personal stories shared about each individual’s journey in discerning their vocation, and how they allowed themselves to be led by the Holy Spirit.
These testimonies deeply resonated with me and enriched my own reflection on vocation. It reminded me to trust in God’s promises — of joy, fulfillment, and guidance — on the path He sets before us.
Donor’s generosity provides vocation training
Thanks to generous donors, Emil and Sophie Motoska, a fund was established many years ago that provides financial support for formative experiences for young adults as they search how best to live their baptismal call and for those fostering retreats, conference et cetera that nurture the living of one’s baptismal commitment.
For information on the Archdiocesan Vocations Awareness Committee, contact Sr. Mary Clare Stack, U.J.: mctstack@outlook.com
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