COLUMBIA—Web surfers will be able to gain a deeper awareness of vocations through a website launched Sept. 13.
Development of the site, www.charlestonvocations.com, started in July in conjunction with Vianney Vocations of Valdosta, Ga., said Father Jeffrey F. Kirby, vicar of vocations for the Diocese of Charleston.
“The site contains all kinds of information, including an introduction to our seminarians, information on discerning vocations, prayer, and guides for parents to help them as their children discern a vocation,” Father Kirby said. “Some parents are asking, ‘How do I nurture the openness to vocations in my family?’”
For women considering a religious life, the site includes a complete listing of the orders serving in the diocese, a description of their missions and contact information.
Father Kirby said it will be an effective outreach to young people who use the Internet to find most of their information.
Visitors to the site can read the biographies of the 13 current diocesan seminarians and watch some of their video testimonies.
Father Kirby said this is part of an ongoing effort to help people learn more about those studying to be priests.
“We want the seminarians to know they’re in our prayers and our thoughts, that we don’t just ship them off to seminary,” he said. “This is a way that people can get to know them, and the seminarians can feel they have a concrete presence in the parishes and schools.”
Prayer cards, posters and a newsletter promoting vocations were sent out to schools and parishes, Father Kirby said. Posters include a dramatic photo of a monstrance with the Blessed Sacrament, the message “Come Follow Me,” and pictures of the seminarians.