1st Vocation Awareness Seminar

TANJUNG ARU – The inaugural Vocation Awareness Seminar to Consecrated Life was held at Stella Maris Church Catechetical Centre, Tanjung Aru Jan 17-19. It was jointly organized by the various Religious Congregations, namely the Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception (FSIC), Brothers of St Gabriel (Monfort), Daughters of St Paul (DSP), Brothers of de La Salle (FSP) and Order of Franciscan Minor Capuchin (OFM Cap).

Eighty youths, male and female, from the three arch/dioceses of Sabah participated in the seminar, the objective of which was to help them to discern their call and direction in life, as well as to promote Vocation.

Fr Valentine Gampok, OFM Cap, presided at the opening Mass. In his session after the Mass, he shared on Vocation in general. He also explained the difference between the vocation of a diocesan priest and a religious.

Next few sessions saw some sharing from the various religious congregations who were present: Bro James (SG), Sr Shirley Chong (FSP), Bro Egbertus Jaikul (FSC), Fr Valentine Gampok (OFM Cap), and Sr Tina Basil (FSIC).

Each shared some information regarding the congregation they represent as well as some personal sharings.

Opportunities were given to participants to share their experiences and knowledge gained in the seminar, followed by Q&A. Many were happy to have attended the seminar and their minds are opened to the vastness and varieties of ministry in the church. 

The seminar concluded with Sunday Mass at Stella Maris Church, celebrated by Fr Valentine Gampok. In his homily, he challenged the congregation to pray for the youths of today that, with courage, they may respond to God’s call. He called upon parents to willingly offer their children to serve in God’s vineyard. He also challenged