By Fr. John Adamski

SAN DIEGO – It’s a very reassuring and supportive experience to be here with over 100 priests for the annual vocation directors’ convention. I can’t help but be more optimistic and hopeful about my own work and priesthood as a result of the confidence which these men express in the value of ministry.

Vocation directors are here from across the country: Anchorage, Alaska and Portland, Maine, Miami and San Diego. The Catholic Church in the United States must have an exciting future because of the enthusiasm which these men convey.

Convention can be boring and routine informational events. Fortunately that’s not the case here. Just as at last year’s gathering, the most important experience of the week is the sharing and support which pervades this atmosphere. There are people here of every age and background who find a common denominator in their experience of ministry and faith and who don’t shy away from sharing that experience personally with each other. Priesthood becomes a very real and valuable brotherhood under these circumstances. This experience also points to the possibility of priests in every diocese experiencing and developing the same sort of brotherly support.

Naturally everyone here is interested in attracting others to the ministry of the Church; that’s our work. A significant realization among people here is that success in vocation work doesn’t depend on elaborate and sophisticated recruiting programs. Rather, young people might be genuinely interested in ministry when they see a real person with whom they can identify living out that style of life with eagerness and sincerity.

Every priest is in vocation work because of the effect that he can have on the vocational choices of those around him. A man who conveys personal satisfaction and happiness with his life and work will make that style of life attractive for others.

This convention is an experience of the entire Church in miniature. Sharing the week and the program are bishops, priests, brother, sisters, seminarians and lay persons. The spirit of cooperation and openness has a dynamic effect on everyone. Many people are here for the first time; they don’t know anyone else personally. Even those of us who have been to this gathering before don’t know a large number of people. Nevertheless, everyone is willing to accept the others and trust the experience of faith and sincerity which is shared. That’s perhaps another indication that our unity in Christ can be a great deal stronger than our limited personal vision. It certainly is an encouraging experience.

Another highlight of this week is the attitude about service of the Church. Everyone here doesn’t see priestly service as an isolated call with the Church. Rather, the role of leadership within the community of faith can take many different dimensions. Men and women may be called to particular ministries both with ordination and without it. Perhaps the most significant need is for people who are willing to give their lives or some time out of their lives for service within the believing community. Once again, priesthood isn’t a state unto itself but is a part of the larger leadership context in the Church.

San Diego has a reputation as one of the most beautiful American cities. I think that I still like Atlanta better. But, the hospitality and atmosphere here this week are things which I hope can come back with me so that there might be even more impetus for growth among God’s people in North Georgia.