Vocations Sunday
“Almighty ever-living God, lead us to a share in the joys of heaven,
so that the humble flock may reach where the brave Shepherd has gone before.”
- From the Collect for the Fourth Sunday of Easter
The Fourth Sunday of Easter is known as Vocations Sunday or Good Shepherd Sunday, and is marked as the World Day of Prayer for Vocations. The purpose of this day is to fulfil Jesus' instruction to “Pray the Lord of the harvest to send labourers into his harvest” (Matthew 9:38). While appreciating all vocations, the Church concentrates her attention on raising up shepherds for God's people - vocations to Holy Orders (the priesthood and diaconate) and to the religious life - while encouraging all who are discerning their vocation to pray more earnestly that they may hear and respond to God's call.
Vocations Sunday 2023 - 30th May
Diocesan Prayer for Vocations
Heavenly Father,
we ask you to send
labourers into your harvest.
Inspire, in the hearts of your people,
vocations to the priesthood, diaconate
and religious life.
Bless our families with a spirit of generosity,
so that those whom you call
have the courage to give themselves
to your Church in faith.
Through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Vocations Sunday 2024 will be marked on 21st April.
Key documents
Pope Francis' Letter for Vocations Sunday 2023
The official text, presented for easy printing.