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Archdiocesan Vocations Office Making a World of Difference Returning to an idea that was successful for the church in the past, the Archdiocese of Newark Vocations Office has planned the first Vocations Fair of the Millennium. Those considering the life of a religious can learn more about being a priest, Brother or Sister on Saturday, September 23, 2000, 10 a.m.- 5 p.m., at Seton Hall University, South Orange Avenue, South Orange. The theme, Make a World of DifferenceÉ But How?, gives Brothers, Sisters and priests a chance to interact with men and women who are interested in a religious life. Representatives of more than 35 religious communities, along with diocesan priests, will meet with attendees in a variety of ways, ranging from one-on-one discussions to workshops. Each attendee can participate in two workshops during the Fair. The workshop topics include: Be in Touch, presented by Sr. Mary Roy Weiss, SSND. This workshop will focus on being in touch with God, others and ourselves through a variety of prayer forms. Wheel of Faith, a panel discussion where priests, Brothers and Sisters will tell their stories of how they heard and decided to answer God's Call. How to Discern God's Call, presented by Sr. Pat Wormann, OP. This session helps to answer the questions that come with hearing and answering God's Call. Dream Catchers and Doers, presented by Br. Steve Schlitte, FMS and Sr. Kristen Funari, CSJP. This workshop will help expand your view of the world and learn how to act on behalf of peace and justice. An Eye/"I" on Mission, presented by Fr. Thomas Wright, SMA and Sr. Mary Crucifix Pandullo, CSJB. The workshop will help expand the awareness of the need for missionary volunteers, both religious and lay. Associate Director of Vocations and event coordinator Sr. Marilyn Minter, CSSF, said, "I find that people's awareness of vocations is alive and real, and that men and women are committing their lives to the church. This is exciting." In addition to the workshops, the Vocations Fair will feature booths set up by Brothers, Sisters and priests from the participating orders. Attendees can also take the Ministry Potential Discerna (MPD), a 15- minute test that measures the taker's potential for ministry within the church. Throughout the day, live musicians will play uplifting Christian music for everyone at the Vocations Fair to enjoy. Caroline Gambale, Director of Youth Ministry, will discuss the importance of vocations in the Church and the discernment process. Most of her talk will focus on the journey and discernment of where God is calling you- some ways on how to figure out God's will. She will also include in her presentation a discussion of the vows of poverty, chastity and obedience- explaining what the vows mean and their importance in the life of a Brother, Sister or priest. Before the Vocations Fair comes to a close, Bishop Paul Bootkoski will celebrate the Eucharist. The registration deadline is September 11, 2000. Registration fee is $10 and includes lunch. For more information, please contact Fr. Rich Kelly, Director of Vocations, at (973) 497-4365, or kellyric@rcan.org.
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