Some people know the answer to that question early in life, like Mary Margaret Gefre, now Sr. Rosalind, a Sister of St. Joseph of Carondelet, St. Paul Province, in Minnesota, about whom columnist Christina Capecchi writes in her column, Twenty Something.
Mary Margaret was only 19 when she decided to leave behind her boyfriend to become a nun. It wasn’t an easy decision for her – and she doesn’t try to paint that picture. She said it was hard to give up the young man she was sure would be her husband, and with whom she could envision a happy life with babies – she said she had to do a lot of thinking.
But she also said she knew her calling. She had found her home.
There are books devoted to finding purpose in life, and articles online that boast, “How to Discover Your Life Purpose in About 20 Minutes,” “11 Actions You Can Take Today to Discover Your Life’s Purpose,” and “How to Find Your Life’s Purpose: 6 Steps.”
Sr. Rosalind Gefre, 84, a Sister of St. Joseph of Carondelet and Consociates in Minnesota, joined the convent at age 19. (Submitted photo by Christina Capecchi)
You can take surveys to determine the career path that’s right for you, and self-assessment tests that help you determine your strengths.
Our Catholic faith points us to prayer, to asking the Holy Spirit for guidance in determining how to spend our time on earth.
The church offers retreats and presentations.
Religious congregations offer “Come and see” days that allow young women to experience a day or weekend in the life of a religious sister.
Young men interested in the priesthood spend time before and after entering the seminary, discerning whether this is the path they want to take.
Some people get married and have kids. Others stay single and devote their time to missionary work.
So, what is your purpose?
It’s a big question!
That’s why the Sept. 18 issue of Catholic Herald’s myFaith will delve into all things vocations – from vocations to the priesthood or a religious congregation, to marriage and parenthood and the single life, to jobs and careers and everything that can be considered one’s “calling.”
We will explore and offer insight into the lives of young adults who have chosen these paths. Who knows? Their stories may just help you on your own journey.
If you know someone whose story we should include in this section, or if you have other story ideas, please send them to me at ruscht@archmil.org.
Have a great summer!
