Discernment

Discernment is the patient art of recognising whether God is calling you to give your life as a Brother. It cannot be rushed, and it cannot be done alone — it unfolds in prayer, in honest conversation with a wise companion, and over time.

SIGNS OF A POSSIBLE CALL

While every call is unique, certain signs commonly mark a genuine vocation:

A persistent attraction to prayer and the things of God;
A growing desire to give one's life freely and totally to the Lord;
An openness to community life — not as a refuge, but as a calling;
A love for young people, especially those who are poor or overlooked;
A peace that remains even after the initial enthusiasm passes;
The confirmation of trusted spiritual companions.

WHAT DISCERNMENT IS NOT

Discernment is not the search for certainty before acting; it is the practice of taking small, prayerful steps and noticing how God responds. Doubts and fears are normal — they do not disqualify a vocation.

A SIMPLE PRACTICE

Pray daily — even briefly — for the grace to know God's will;
Read the Gospels slowly, asking how the life of Jesus invites you;
Spend time with the Brothers, attending Mass, joining a retreat;
Speak honestly with a Brother formator or spiritual director;
Be patient — the Lord works on his own timetable, not ours.

"Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening." — 1 Samuel 3:9

When you are ready to begin a conversation, please see Contact the Formators.