Discernment Basics

The Catechism of the Catholic Church notes that prayer is a ‘vital and personal relationship with the living and true God’ (2558). It is in spending time with Him who created us that we grow in a personal relationship with Him. If you are new to daily prayer, be patient as you grow into it! Support your prayer with Scripture and spiritual reading but be sure to spend time just being in His presence, in the silence, and sharing your heart. He created your heart, He loves your heart, and nothing that you bring to Him will be a surprise!

As Pope Francis reminded us, “The Sacraments are the manifestation of the Father’s tenderness and love towards each of us.” The Lord desires to pour an abundance of grace upon you, and He does this tangibly through the Sacraments. Attending daily Mass as often as possible will steep you into daily Scripture and give you daily food from Heaven - nourishing that relationship that has already begun in prayer. Frequent confession will continue to free you of the sins that bind you to choosing evil and free us to choose the Lord. It is in true freedom that we can discern the will of God.

You are not meant to walk this journey alone. Discipleship and discernment are challenging! Mentorship will help you grow in virtue and habits for holiness through accountability and accompaniment which will create a heart ready to respond generously to the Lord’s voice. Reach out to your priest, youth minister, or another spiritual role model in your local area. If you do not know who to reach out to, please contact Emily Sjomeling, Women's Discernment Coordinator for the diocese - she is here for you!