The word “discernment” comes from the Latin “discernere” which means “to separate.” When you discern religious life, you set apart time to pray, reflect and discover God’s plan.
This journey of discernment is a search for intimacy with God, an intimacy that brings interior freedom. For the love of God and neighbor you strive to become the best version of yourself. You seek to love life by service and your responsibility to others. It is a courageous decision to respond to Jesus and to live the Beatitudes radically by doing the right thing at the right time for the right reason.
As you discern, look for peace in your heart. If everyone waited for absolute certainty before making a commitment, no one ever would. An inner peace - even in the midst of lingering uncertainty - will reveal God’s call to you. Seek peace, not certainty.
Is there a deep stirring within you to give yourself to God? Are you willing to allow God to use you as His instrument? Do you desire to bring the light of Christ by service to others? If so, you may be called to religious life.
