Identity & Mission
NCDVD supports Vocation Directors as they accompany men who are
discerning the priesthood Jesus Christ.
Who We Are & What We Do
Key Aspects of NCDVD
A Supportive Brotherhood
Above all, NCDVD is a fraternity of Vocation Directors that provide mutual support to each other. This brotherhood operates daily as priests ask for each othersโ advice, collaborate on projects, and offer insights from their experience. We also welcome religious brothers and sisters, vocation office personnel, and lay people who collaborate with us in this ministry.
Annual Convention
We gather together in August or September of each year for our annual Convention, which draws hundreds of Vocation Directors, staff, and collaborators from around the United States, as well as from at least ten different countries. Members describe it as one of the highlights of their year, as it not only offers spiritual renewal and practical knowledge, but also enjoyable excursions and downtime with brother priests.
Vocare Institute for New Vocation Directors
Often referred to as โboot camp,โ the Vocare Institute occurs before the general convention begins. It is an intensive three-day workshop that prepares new Vocation Directors for the unique challenges of this important ministry. Vocare focuses on three primary aspects of our work: Promotion, Accompaniment, and Formation. Invariably, new Vocation Directors credit Vocare as an indispensable part of undertaking their new role.
Regional Gatherings
We are structured into 15 regions that mirror the US Bishopโs regional structure. Each Regional Director coordinates communications among the Vocation Directors in his region, including a local in-person gathering in the spring. This is a valuable time to compare notes and collaborate on regional projects.
DiocesanPriest.com
We run diocesanpriest.com, which is a resource for young men seeking good priesthood discernment resources. In particular, an interactive map helps men find their local Vocation Director.
Reaching Out Wednesdays
A longstanding tradition of NCDVD, โReaching Out Wednesdaysโ is a way for members (especially new Vocation Directors) to ask questions that are answered by other members. When we send out an email with questions, the office compiles answers and makes them available to the original inquirer, as well as archiving the responses online.
Fundraising and Advocacy
While our members pay dues, our organization also raises funds to support operations. This includes coordinating sponsorships for our convention, as well as building relationships with other donors. We also advocate for the work of Vocation Directors with the USCCB, Serra, and other organizations.
Preventing Sexual Abuse
In our Vocare Workshop for New Vocation Directors, as well as other initiatives, NCDVD places heavy emphasis on the rigorous evaluation and screening of candidates for the priesthood. A frequent mantra at our events is โquality, not quantity,โ meaning that even with the nationwide shortage of priests, subpar candidates should never be admitted to seminary formation. We assist Vocation Directors in determining whether a man possesses the stability necessary to serve as a chaste and faithful priest.
Ministry to the Whole Church
After their time as Vocation Directors, many NCDVD members go on to assume other leadership roles in the Church, certainly as pastors, but also as bishops, seminary rectors, vicars general. When they do so, they retain their connection to NCDVD and a heart for a vocation work. In this way, we are creating a culture of vocations within the leadership of the wider Church.
Huntington, NY
NCDVD National Office
The NCDVD office, led by our Executive Director, Mrs. Rose Sullivan, is located at Immaculate Conception Retreat Center in Huntington, NY. Vocation Directors frequently reach out with a range of questions, from seminarian applications to summer assignments. Weโre always happy to helpโor connect you with a brother Vocation Director who can offer wisdom.