We have carefully designed our grant programs so that men and women who seek to answer God’s call can do so immediately, without delay or distractions.
Through our St. Joseph Grant Program, we assume monthly student loan payments while an aspirant is in formation thereby enabling them to enter formation right away, and free from financial worry. When a newly minted priest, sister, or brother takes final vows, we then pay off their loan balance within five years. If they discern out, they simply reassume their monthly loan payments, which we have kept up to date.
In other words: We make grants quickly, and then pay debt slowly. That way, formation begins sooner, and it’s free from distraction or pressure—even self-imposed— to persevere (because someone has paid off their loans) if God is calling them elsewhere. We designed our process to advance our mission: fostering healthy vocations.
Through the DAD Fund, we assist with the smaller financial obstacles that can prevent or delay a vocation: travel for discernment visits, books and uniforms that are required for entry, and other necessities.
Where you come in
The Catholic lay faithful partner with and assist the Fund for Vocations—and the wonderful young men and women we exist to support—in three ways:
- Pray for us. First, last, and always, pray. Pray that God’s will be done in our work.
- Make a financial contribution. Any amount, large or small will be a great help and blessing to all those who need the Fund for Vocation’s assistance to follow God’s call.
- If you know anyone who might be interested in this effort, tell them about us.
First of all, I was astounded that there was an organization like yours to help me in my situation. I would not have been able to enter religious life anywhere if I had not had your help. To me, it was a gift of love. And when you have received a gift of love, you responded differently. Even though the program is structured so as not to interfere with discernment, it makes me want to do my best and persevere. It makes me want to respond in love. God bless you for what you do!
Sister Veronica Mary of the Transfiguration,
Dominican Monastery of the Blessed Sacrament, Farmington Hills, MI
It is a tragic irony that when the heavens are being stormed for vocations and God generously answers, that the response can be hindered by something as minor in comparison as a student loan. Yet, sadly more and more vocations are being put on hold for this very reason. That’s why vocation directors exclaim: “Thank God for the Mater Ecclesiae Fund for Vocations!”
Fr. Andrew-Carl Wisdom, O.P.;
Former Promoter of Vocations, Director of the Society for Vocational Support;
Dominican Province of St. Albert the Great