The World Day of Prayer for Vocations, also known as Good Shepherd Sunday, is an annual event in the life of the universal Church.

In 2005 the 42nd Day was celebrated on Sunday April 17th. The theme of the 2005 Message is "Put out into the Deep."

The Pope made a particular appeal to young people to "Put out into the deep" recognising how sincere is their desire for holiness. He also appealed to parents and teachers, priests, consecrated persons and catechists to be an example to young people "of generous fidelity to Christ". The Pope says some are called to family life, others to consecrated life or to the ministerial priesthood. "Help young people to discern their path and to become true friends to Christ and his true disciples".

We hope that you had a joyful celebration of this important day, and one that bears fruit throughout the year.

Press Release for Vocations Sunday 17 April 2005

Pope John Paul II's Message and Prayer for the World Day of Prayer for Vocations 2005

Parish Clip Art

Parish Newsletter Insert

Statistics of Worldwide Ordinations to Secular Priesthood
Statistics of Catholic Population, Clergy and Mass Centres in England & Wales 1984-2001
(Catholic Statistics - Priests and Population in England and Wales, 1941 - 2001)


Primary School Assembly

Secondary School Years 7-9 Lesson Plan on Pope's Message

Secondary School Years 10-11 Vocation Liturgy

Secondary School Vocation Exploration Years 10-11

Year 11/12 Form Assembly on Pope's Message 2005

Case Study of Week of Guided Prayer for 6th Form

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National Office for Vocation   The Chase Centre 114 West Heath Road London NW3 7TX  United Kingdom
Tel: 020 8458 6017 Registered Charity No: 1097482