Men Discernment Evening
Follow with a purpose
An Ordinary Evening, An Extraordinary Invitation
Men’s Discernment Evening is an environment of prayer, fraternity, and honest conversation where men can explore how God might be calling them, especially to the diocesan priesthood.
Trinitarian Format
Pray
We begin in front of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, asking for the grace to hear His voice and respond with courage. Through adoration, Scripture, and brief guided reflections, men learn how to listen in their hearts and bring real questions about vocation and future plans before the Lord.
Break Bread
After prayer, we share a simple, relaxed meal with seminarians and priests. Around the table, men can hear vocation stories, ask frank questions about seminary and priesthood, and discover that discernment happens in real life with real people, not in isolation.
Fraternity
Building fraternity through sports is a key part of Men’s Discernment Evening because it gives guys a natural way to connect, challenge one another, and grow in virtue side by side. When men play together, whether it’s soccer, basketball, volleyball, or flag football, they quickly move past small talk and begin to build real trust, teamwork, and mutual respect.
"Nothing is so strong as gentleness, nothing so gentle as real strength."
Saint Francis de Sales
FAQ
Do I need to be seriously discerning to attend?
No. Whether you’re just curious, newly asking questions about your vocation, or already in regular spiritual direction, this evening is for anyone open to God’s will.
Is the evening together or separate for men and women?
We begin together in prayer and/or a shared meal, then split into two tracks: men with priests and seminarians, and women with a visiting sister for a focused discernment experience.
What should I bring or wear?
Dress modestly and comfortably for church and light activity (especially if you plan to play sports). A Bible, journal, and pen are helpful, but not required.
I’m shy and don’t know anyone, will I have to share?
You’re never forced to speak. There will be opportunities for small‑group or personal sharing, but you’re free to participate at your own pace and simply listen if that’s where you’re at.
Need Help Discerning