An exiting MIB event is planned for Summer, 2010! “Ora et Labora,” is a summer experience that is open to anyone who has attended a previous MIB Retreat. The focus will be on the “Ora et Labora” model: prayer and work. The men will further explore our life of prayer, as well as engage a work project that will benefit the Abbey.
What would a summer event be without some fun! Participants will be able to enjoy summer activities, so be sure to bring summer wear, hiking boots, swim wear, etc.
To register for the retreat, simply fill out our PDF registration form and mail to:
Br. Jacob Amos, O.S.B.
Vocation Director
St. Bernard Abbey
1600 St. Bernard Dr. S.E.
Cullman, AL 35055.
Also, if you have any other questions about Ora et Labora or MIB, simply contact our Vocation Director, Br. Jacob Amos, O.S.B., at 256-255-5828 or brjacobosb@yahoo.com
God bless!
 

Vocation Awareness begins in the Family and Parish

People throughout the Church are more aware of the growing discrepancy in the number of vocations, especially to the consecrated life, and the needs of the Church. All of us, clergy, religious and laity, share the important responsibility of encouraging young people to be generous in their response as they discern the possibility of a call to service in the Church. The Holy Father has challenged us to persevere in our personal prayer for this intention, and asks for both individual and communal efforts to support those discerning a vocation.
Vocations is a critical priority. When speaking to parishes, I try to associate their lived experience with the issue of vocation awareness and support. The family is the root of vocations.
Jesus calls all the Baptized to proclaim the message of the Gospels; entrusted to us at our own Baptisms. As disciples of Christ, we must take the ‘good news’ of salvation and make it known to the world.
Each of our individual vocations is rooted in and built upon the foundation of our Baptism. We physically, mentally and spiritually mature with the assistance of our parents, family members and friends. Likewise, the aid and support of a Church vocation is rooted in the same natural support system. The starting point for the vocation awareness process lies with the efforts of our families and parish communities. Each must undertake the obligation to help their sons and daughter in their lived experiences an appreciation for vocations. This positive affirmation, encouragement and support, is the soil in which vocations grow.
Under faithful and loving parents, vocations grow and flourish. We pray especially for good Christian families, as they provide the foundation of a vocation to Church ministry. And we ask you, are you willing to give your son to us, knowing that you become part of our family in St. Benedict?

Br. Jacob Amos, O.S.B.
Vocation Director
May, 2010