Broken Homes and Vocations

There's an epidemic in this country, and throughout the world, and it is this that many of us believe is the cause of the "Vocations crisis." God is indeed calling souls to serve Him in all capacities, but part of knowing how to hear that call comes from the relationships built within a healthy family.

I still remember a priest once giving a homily on this very problem. He was speaking about another priest who was telling a little boy all about the love of the Father, and about who the Father is and what he does, and on and on. And finally, that little boy, in tears, bursts out, "NO! My father beats me!"

How can that poor child possibly understand the love of the Father, the REAL love of the Father when the only example he's had has been one of arbitrary harm? And how can a woman learn to see Mary as her Mother when her earthly mother didn't do anything to reveal the divine love that was supposed to be manifest through her to her child? There's a serious disconnect.

And it's not a problem just in abusive families like dear Sister Caprice's. It's a problem found in divorced families, remarried families, and the like. It's not that God isn't calling; it's just that there is no context to provide for the children to hear that call.

I did not know Sister Caprice's story or how serious it was for her. And I see now how God has brought her here to be with us so we can give her an experience of family. It's no wonder she is so confused! What is a wonder is her sweet temperment! How does a girl grow up like that and still grow in charity? Divine Grace, that's what. And she's been sent to myself and to Father.

And she may sometimes be a thorn in our sides, but Glory Be, that's going to sanctify us, too!

We will have more discussion on this widespread problem as time goes on.