In this episode, I continue my conversation with Fr. Will Schmid to hear more about his own journey of discerning the call to the priesthood and the “calls within the call” that have shaped his vocation. We talk about the role of holy friendship and community in discernment, as well as the importance of consistent prayer and creating space to listen to God. Fr. Will also shares practical wisdom for bringing our questions and decisions into the light with trusted people who can help us discern well.
Reflection and Discussion Questions:
Fr. Will found himself daydreaming about giving homilies while listening to others’ preaching. Did your daydreams reveal anything about your future calling?
Another priest told Fr. Will that he’d been praying for him and his vocation even before he was discerning it. Do you know or believe that someone was praying for you and your calling? Are you being called to pray for someone who you believe may have a particular mission?
As he discerned, Father Will got some clarity – not the assurance that he was definitely called to the priesthood, but that he should certainly enter seminary. Often, we get just enough clarity to take one more step forward. Are you waiting for perfect certainty about the big picture before you take the next small step forward? Why might this be a mistake?
Mother Teresa had a “call within a call.” Within his call to the priesthood, Fr. Will found that he was approached by police officers to be their chaplain. This allowed him to be present and accompany them during times of great tragedy and suffering. Within your primary vocation, have you discerned that you’re equipped to serve in an every deeper, more specific way?
Resources Mentioned:
We’d love to hear from you!
If this podcast has encouraged you, consider supporting Your Best Yes on Substack to help us continue creating conversations and resources to help others seek God’s will with greater clarity, confidence, and trust.
