The Second Vatican Council reminds us of the universal call to holiness, for all men and women, regardless of one’s state of life. While being single is not a vocation in and of itself, like those in holy orders, those who assume avowed religious life, and those who marry, all people are called to the universal vocation of laying down our lives for the good of others, as Jesus did.

For those who make religious promises or vows, and those who are called to marriage, the structure of this self-donation of one’s life is spelled out, and the pledge to do so is made publicly and formally on the day of their ordination, solemn profession or wedding.

For those who are single, while they are called to the universal vocation, it’s not so clearly laid out. Single men and women must therefore seek guidance from the Holy Spirit to understand how they are called to give their lives over for the good of others. In this ongoing task their vocation is to be found, for as long as they remain single, even if it is for the duration of their lives.

Young adults can join those who are discerning their vocation as singles, as well as those already living their vocations, by connecting with our diocesan Young Adult Ministry.