Vocations Sunday
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.
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Vocations Sunday - 11th May 2025
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Diocesan Prayer for Vocations
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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.
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Through Christ our Lord.
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Amen.
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Letter for Vocations Sunday 2025 written by Pope Francis before his death on Easter Monday.
The official text, presented for easy printing.