A journey of faith: vocation to the priesthood at St. Mark Seminary
04/06/2025
St. Mark Seminary has been alive with faith, fellowship and discernment over the past several months, as the men continue to explore their call to priesthood. Rooted in prayer and guided by mentors, they have immersed themselves in opportunities to grow spiritually and build community, both within the seminary and beyond.
Throughout this time, the seminarians have welcomed visiting priests and vocational leaders who inspire and encourage their journey. These encounters not only deepen their understanding of priestly life but also strengthen their commitment to discernment. Whether it’s celebrating Mass, sharing meals or engaging in thoughtful conversations, these moments of connection serve as powerful reminders of the beauty and purpose of a vocation to priesthood.
In addition to welcoming guests, the seminarians have also gone beyond the seminary walls to engage with the wider community. From visiting local parishes to participating in events with fellow discerners, they seek to be present and learn from the lived experiences of those already serving the Catholic Church. Pilgrimages to sacred sites and opportunities for fellowship allow them to reflect on their journey, grounded in prayer and supported by one another.
Amid these formative experiences, St. Mark Seminary remains dedicated to fostering a spirit of discernment. The upcoming Palm Sunday Discernment Weekend, taking place April 12-13, 2025, is an open invitation for any young man, high school age and older, who is interested in exploring the call to priesthood. It’s an opportunity to spend time at the seminary, pray with other men seeking to know God’s plan and learn more about what it means to embrace a vocation.
If you or someone you know feels called to discern, we invite you to take that next step. Contact Fr. Scott Jabo, Vocation Director, at SWJabo@eriercd.org or 814-824-1198 for more information. There is no cost to attend the weekend. Come and see where God may be leading you on your path of faith and service.
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