Jesuits launch Vocations web site

The British Jesuit Province has launched a designated web site to help men considering whether they have a vocation to the Society of Jesus. Under the direction of Vocations Director, Father Matthew Power SJ, the site provides a comprehensive overview of life as a Jesuit, assesses what are the qualities needed in a Jesuit priest or brother today, and offers potential candidates some suggestions for exploring their vocation.

The site is also rich with photographs of Jesuits involved in various ministries and personal testimonies, both written and on video. Jesuits - including the Superior General, Father Adolfo Nicolás - reflect on what it means to be a member of the Society of Jesus, the importance of the vows, and the process of discernment as each of them recalls his own path to the Society. There is also considerable focus on the process of formation, living in community and prayer.

In introducing the new web site, Fr Power says that it is the instinct of a Jesuit to want to 'respond to humanity with all its diversity, with its creativity and joys, but also its suffering and hardship … to want to always be attentive to where God is at work. We want to do Christ's work,' he continues, 'and we want to help others to come to know Christ. We want to be the servants of Christ.'

Fr Power has identified a number of events that might help men decide what their vocation might be, including retreats at the Spirituality Centres of St Beuno's and Loyola Hall, and volunteering opportunities. 'Whilst visiting this site people may wish to take a moment to pray using the 'Pause for prayer' exercises as a support,' he adds. 'The led meditations are brief and designed to provide a theme upon which visitors might continue to reflect once the exercise is over.' They were recorded in association with pray-as-you-go and Jesuit Media Initiatives.

Finally, the Jesuit Vocations web site provides contact details for the Vocations Directors in Britain and Ireland, as well as in South Africa and Guyana, which are Regions of the British Jesuit Province. 'To make this contact will be an important stage in exploring whether or not God is calling you to the Society of Jesus,' says Fr Power. 'It may seem like an enormous step to take but be assured the Society will do all it can to help you make a free and good choice in regards to your vocation.'

You can visit the web site at www.jesuitvocations.org.uk.