Office of Vocations

Peace be with you!

Welcome to the Vocation Office website for the Archdiocese of St. Louis.

Perhaps you are considering a vocation to the priesthood or religious life or know somebody who is. Either way, I hope that you find the articles, prayers and information on this website a helpful starting point.

As you know, each one of us is a beloved son or daughter of our Heavenly Father. This is our primary identity. From this flows our universal call to love God with all of our heart, mind and strength, and our neighbor as our self. Within this universal call to holiness, God calls out to us individually to follow and serve Him through a holy single life, marriage, religious life, or holy orders. Each vocation has its joys and its crosses. Each one reflects the beauty and glory of God in its own way.  And in God’s grand design of creation and redemption, He has a specific plan just for you.

So “Be not afraid”!  We are called to be a people of discernment. Every young man should at least pray about the priesthood/religious life and every young woman should ask whether she feels called to consecrated life.  I have no doubt that Jesus is calling many young men and women to come and follow Him in religious vocations. We just need to listen…and respond! 

Sincerely in Christ,

Father Chris Martin,

Vocation Director

The Office of Vocations has returned to Kenrick-Glennon Seminary at 5200 Glennon Drive St. Louis, Missouri 63119.

Office of Vocation 314-792-6460

Fr. Christopher Martin 314-792-6462

Sharron Opitz 314-792-6463 (Mon./Wed./Fri.)

Renae Novak 314-792-6465 (Mon. thru Thurs.)

Spiritual Thought ....

Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart.  So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man.

                                                                                                                                                                          Proverbs 3:3-4

Annual Fisher of Men Award

The Fisher of Men award exists to recognize within the Archdiocese a priest who by word and example, prayer and practice, has fostered a genuine “Culture of Vocations” in his priestly ministry; inspiring young men and women to follow Christ in the priesthood and religious life.  Congratulations to Msgr. Pieper, recipient of last year's Fisher of Men Award!

Winner of the 2013 Fisher of Men Award will be announced in the St. Louis Review. 

Is God Calling You?

Are you looking for ways to grow closer to the Lord? Perhaps you or someone you know is thinking of the priesthood or consecrated life. Hopefully this website will provide you with the information, support and encouragement you need to continue your journey. You will find opportunities to gather with seminarians and other young men and women whose hearts are open to the call of Christ. It is our hope that through the various Events sponsored by the Office of Vocations you will be able to take that next step in responding to the call of Christ. Be sure to check out the Videos section and see that life as a seminarian is not just rewarding, but fun and exciting too.  Feel free to contact Reverend Christopher M. Martin, Vocation Director: vocations@archstl.org