Nurturing Vocations at a Classical Academy

Almost 2500 years ago Socrates insightfully observed that “The unexamined life is not worth living.” His words are still true today. In order for us to live joyously, and to love and serve God well, we must examine His gifts to us: the world around us and the gift of our lives.

Saint Ignatius of Loyola expanded upon this principal writing, “In making a choice or in coming to a decision only one thing is really important: to seek and to find out what God calls me to do at this time of life.” To aide students in beginning their discernment, Padre Pio Academy invited priests and nuns to come and speak about their religious vocations and to share their discernment stories with our students.

While sharing the story of how he found his vocation, Father Schneider told our high schoolers, “It is amazing to give your life to God.” He encouraged Padre Pio Academy students to pray and ask God what He is requesting from them, and to carefully consider all vocations. Father Schneider told the students that following God’s desires for us will lead to happiness. As Jesus said, "These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full." (John 15:11) 

Thank you to diocesan priest, Father John Schneider, Brother Matthew Levis O. de M, Brother Gregory Coyne O.B., and Sr. Monica Hope Mercedes Waters, HMSS, for coming to Padre Pio Academy to meet with our students.