November 1–7, 2026

National Vocation Awareness Week Pray for vocations. Listen for God's call.

Each November the Catholic Church in the United States sets aside a week to pray for and promote vocations to the priesthood, the diaconate, and consecrated life, and to give thanks for all who have answered God's call to serve.

Explore a vocation Ways to take part Pray with us

Every Catholic is called

God calls each of us to holiness. For some, that call is to serve the Church as a priest, deacon, or consecrated religious. This week we pray especially for those vocations.

Priesthood

Diocesan priests serve the people of a local church, celebrating the sacraments and shepherding parishes alongside their bishop.

Diaconate

Deacons are ordained to a ministry of Word, liturgy, and charity. Married men may be ordained as permanent deacons.

Consecrated life

Religious sisters, brothers, and priests, along with other consecrated men and women, give their lives to God through vows.

Marriage and single life

Married couples and single people live out their baptismal call in the world, and families are the first place vocations take root.

National Vocation Awareness Week began in 1976. In 2014 the U.S. bishops moved it to the first week of November so Catholic schools and colleges could take a fuller part.

Ways to take part

Building a culture of vocations starts at home and grows in our parishes and schools. Here are a few simple ways to join in this week, and all year.

  1. Pray every day for vocations

    Add a prayer for vocations to family meals, the Rosary, or the Prayers of the Faithful at Mass.

  2. Talk about vocations at home

    Ask your children what God might be calling them to, and share how you discerned your own path.

  3. Invite someone to consider a call

    A personal invitation is often what helps a young person take the first step. If you see the gifts, say so.

  4. Thank those who serve

    Write a note or say a word of thanks to a priest, deacon, sister, or brother in your parish or school.

  5. Use resources in your parish or school

    Prayers, bulletin inserts, and planning ideas in English and Spanish are on the USCCB National Vocation Awareness Week page.

  6. Take the next step in discernment

    The diocesan Office of Vocations offers dinners, retreats, and discernment groups for men and women. See upcoming events.

Pray with us

A prayer for vocations

Lord Jesus, you call each of us by name.
Bless our diocese with generous hearts:
holy priests and deacons,
faithful religious sisters and brothers,
and families who welcome your will.
Give those you are calling the courage to listen,
and give us the grace to support them. Amen.
Mary, Mother of the Church, pray for us.

Is God calling you?

If you have been wondering about the priesthood, the diaconate, or religious life, you don't have to figure it out alone. The Office of Vocations is glad to talk with you, with no pressure.

Contact Diocese of Dallas Office of Vocations

214-379-2860
dallasvocations.org

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