The Catholic Church worldwide marked Good Shepherd Sunday, with a strong message to parents to allow children freely discern their calling to the priesthood and religious life rather than being compelled into it.
The annual celebration, now in its 63rd year, was instituted by Pope Paul VI in 1963 to encourage vocations and inspire families to nurture a genuine desire among young people to serve God.
The day focuses on praying for an increase in those called to preach the Gospel, administer sacraments, and strengthen the Church.
This year’s theme, “One in Christ, United in Mission,” calls on Christians to deepen unity and commitment in their service to God and humanity.
During Holy Mass at Kitovu Cathedral in Masaka, led by Msgr. Dr. Dominic Ssengooba, Christians were urged to work together in faith and support one another in fulfilling God’s mission.
He emphasized the growing need for more dedicated servants in the Church, noting that unity among believers is essential in strengthening evangelization efforts.
Msgr. Ssengooba reminded the faithful that while all Christians share in the “priesthood” through baptism, by teaching God’s word, helping others, and offering comfort, the ordained priesthood remains a special calling that requires commitment, discipline, and a deep sense of purpose.
He also called for prayers for those undergoing formation in seminaries and religious institutions, urging that they be guided to fully understand and embrace their vocation.
Speaking at the same event, Rev. Fr. Augustine Ssembajjwe, the Vocation Director of Masaka Diocese, expressed appreciation to parents who support children that willingly choose religious life, particularly through providing school fees and basic needs.
However, he raised concern over a growing trend of parents forcing their children into priesthood and religious life.
Fr. Ssembajjwe warned that such pressure often leads to long-term challenges, as some individuals later struggle to cope with the demands of the vocation.
“Children should be allowed to follow their own calling,” he emphasized, noting that those pushed into religious life without conviction may find it difficult to persevere, which can negatively affect the ministry.
He urged parents instead to guide and support their children in discerning their vocation, allowing them the freedom to make informed decisions about their future.
As part of the day’s observance, Christians were encouraged to pray for an increase in vocations, support those already serving, strengthen family faith foundations, and contribute to initiatives such as the Saint Peter the Apostle Society, which supports the training of priests and religious.
The message from Church leaders was clear: true vocation must come from within, nurtured by faith and freedom, not obligation.
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