The Year of Vocation will run from Vocations Sunday – 13th April 2008 to Vocations Sunday – 3rd May 2009.

The aim of the Year of Vocation is to raise awareness of the common vocation that we all share through baptism,
as expressed through witness, love and service

Within each of these themes and throughout 2008-2009 the specific vocations of marriage, the religious life, the
single life and priesthood will be highlighted and promoted.

Some highlights of the year will include: a national prayer campaign for students at examination time; a rally for
World Youth Day to coincide with the events in Sydney on 15-20 July; and, collaboration with the national pilgrimage
centres to reflect on the vocation during their seasons.

A special team is managing the planned activities throughout the ‘Year of Vocation’, representing the Conference of
Religious of Ireland, the Irish Bishops’ Conference, the Irish Missionary Union, St Joseph’s Young Priests Society,
Vocations Ireland, the Knights of St Columbanus and lay personnel.

Whatever we do, wherever we are – whether we are single or married, young or older, priest or religious, men or
women – the Year of Vocation will have something to say to all of us in our following of Jesus Christ. It will also be
a ‘Year’ when everyone can deepen their appreciation and understanding of belonging to the Church. The Year of
Vocation gives us all a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the beauty and meaning of our Christian calling.

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