Being a parent, catechist, caretaker - or simply an adult who works with children - can be a formidable task. Yours is the responsiblity to help form young people into healthy, faith-filled, Christians in a world with competing values.

Statistics tell us that most parents think that it's tougher to be a parent now than it was when they were kids. Most feel they don't have enough time for family life and that society isn't supporting the values for which the family stands.

However, you are called to be one of the guideposts that kids need as they try to find their vocation in life. Included in that call for some parents is to be the mother or father of a priest, deacon, or religious! Consider the mystery of God's plan for your child's life!

How can you support Church vocations? Some talk directly about vocations; others simply try to help youth to learn Christian values. Both kinds of encouragement are helpful.

The following ideas can be easily integrated into your family life:

1. Share your vocation as parents: what you value, how you came to that decision, and the importance of faith in your life.
2. Tell stories about how you fell in love. Let the children see the love and care that parents have for each other.
3. Teach your children to share their time and talent, especially with the less fortunate.
4. Make prayer a usual part of family decision-making. Give children opportunities to lead prayer in their own words.
5. Talk positively and enthusiastically about the priests, sisters, brothers, and deacons in your parish.
6. Set aside a "family time" each week for kids to talk about what is happening in their lives. Let them share about their day.
7. Watch the way your children exhibit their own style. Some children are organizers. Some like to read or play music. Others like to play sports and some invent their own games. Help them develop their own particular gifts and compliment them always. Positive comments from parents are a most valuable gift to your children!
8. Make time for teenagers in your life: your children and their friends, nieces and nephews, babysitters, etc.
9. Let the priests, deacons, and religious in your parish know they are welcome in your home. Invite them to visit sometime.
10. Keep an eye open for TV shows and movies that present Gospel-centered role models. Watch them with your children and engage in a discussion.
11. Tell your children why you chose your particular profession. Who helped you form your decision?
12. Challenge young adults to consider a Church-related vocation. Tell them about the gifts in ministry you see in them.
13. Explore the feelings you might experience should one of your children choose to give his or her life to Church ministry.

Provide your children with information and opportunities to know more about the priesthood and religious life. Use the Vocation Office of the Diocese of Covington as a resource.