‘Stepping up the Call’ detailed vocations

Call it ‘Jeopardy’ with a twist.

More than a dozen people attended the annual ‘Stepping up the Call’ pilgrimage at St. Charles Center Nov. 17 to test their knowledge and learn more about vocations in the Catholic Church.

Representatives from the Cincinnati Archdiocese and affiliated Catholic organizations set up stations to share information and quiz participants on their knowledge about specific vocations. Groups included Precious Blood Sisters, Missionaries of the Precious Blood, the permanent deaconate, archdiocesan priests, the Serra Club and the Knights of Columbus. There were also representatives from married life.

In a new format, participants formed teams to answer questions about each vocation and compete for prizes. The two teams with the most correct answers received small medallions. Participants were quizzed on such things as the origin of the vocation and its role in the church. Sisters of the Precious Blood, for example, had a list of questions on the history and charism of their Congregation.

In addition, speakers gave witness talks about the vocation they represented. Heather Borchers of the Serra Club of St. Mary’s/Sidney deaneries gave an update of the club’s mission and current events. Luke and Rene Klosterman of Coldwater spoke of their marriage and the role Christ plays in it. Father Kyle Schnippel, director of vocations for the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, and Precious Blood Sister Mary Yarger, coordinator of vocations, also spoke at the event.

Missionary of the Precious Blood Brother Hugh Henderson, associate of pastoral care at the Church of the Resurrection in Cincinnati, described the role of a religious brother, explaining that brothers focus on service and have numerous opportunities for outreach, social justice and service to those in need.

In the past, pilgrimage participants walked to various churches in an effort to raise awareness of vocations. The new format was designed to educate people about all vocations. It was also shortened to better accommodate time constraints of the participants.

“I like to emphasize the fact that all of us have vocations,” Brother Hugh said. “All of us are called to serve the church and serve humanity. If the church is to grow with vocations, you have to recognize all vocations. A church without all vocations is impoverished.”

More photos of the event

Story and photo by Dave Eck

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