In a recent article published in Global Catholic, Lavoisier Fernandes discussed the decline in priestly vocations. I agree with him on several points.
For instance, the family remains the first
school of faith, prayer, and vocation. Where family prayer is absent,
vocations seldom flourish. I also agree that the Second Vatican Council
should not be blamed for the decline in vocations.
Yet there is another dimension that
deserves greater attention: the profound social changes that have
reshaped the Church, particularly in Europe. Given my age, I speak
almost as a contemporary witness.
Some seven decades ago, priestly vocations
flourished when families were larger, poorer, and deeply rooted in
religious tradition. Secondary education was often inaccessible to rural
children unless their families were wealthy.
The Church filled this gap with parish
priests supporting disadvantaged boys through diocesan minor seminaries.
Few parents resisted such opportunities, which also enhanced the
family’s social standing.
