A new video series is teaching young men how to discern a vocational calling to the priesthood. Titled Scivias: Know the Ways of the Lord, this unique series is produced by the Archdiocese of Boston. Each installment is released on their Facebook and YouTube channels for free viewing.
The series is hosted by Fr. Michael Zimmerman, a millennial priest who brings to the project his gregarious nature and sincere faith. Fr. Zimmerman narrates and appears in each of the videos, which are interspersed with artistic shots of the Boston landscape. The cinematography makes a point to capture the most impressive Catholic sites in Beantown.
The inspiration for the series came shortly after Fr. Zimmerman took up a post of Assistant Director of Vocations Boston. He explained the importance of the series in a press release:
“Most men don’t even know where to begin with asking God what His will is for their lives. They would often say they wanted to be open and asked God to tell them, but they didn’t know how to go further. I’m convinced that God prepares a heart to say yes to His plan, before He reveals it. He doesn’t want to scare us or force us, but he wants us to lovingly choose His will for ourselves. But to do that, we have to learn to address the fears and desires of our hearts and respond to God’s voice.”
The series
The carefully scripted series draws its lessons from scripture, the saints, and modern literature. Episodes feature reflections from Fr. Zimmerman, who uses his own experiences as a young priest to illuminate the discernment process. As a millennial himself, Fr. Zimmerman is in a unique position to identify with the men of today’s culture.
Of modern discernment, Fr. Zimmerman said:
“What the Church means by ‘discernment’ is learning how to recognize a calling of God’s voice inviting us to choose the one thing that He wills for us and is best for us among many good options.”
Scivias is scheduled to run for 27 episodes, split into three parts: “Knowing Yourself,” “Your Life as a Sacrificial Gift,” and “Understanding the Life and Ministry of an Ordained Priest.” They are currently on Episode 9, with new segments released weekly. Their brief segments have covered topics like “The Source of Love,” “Sense of Self,” and “When Will God Answer Me?”
The Archdiocese of Boston streams the series on social media, but they offer more than just weekly releases. Those who are especially interested in the program can sign up for early access to new videos. They also offer exclusive content such as a special guidebook to aid one in personal prayer and reflection.
Join the supportive Scivias community on the Vocations Boston Facebook page.
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