Fr. Ray Hill, former Maryknoll Superior General once wrote, “I think if we had to leave mission tomorrow, Maryknoll could point with pride at what so few have been able to accomplish.”
My vocation call started many years ago inside a military aircraft at 30,000 feet. As I now write this farewell note, inside a commercial airliner at the same altitude, I do so with a deep sense of gratitude for all the blessings I’ve received over these past six years as a vocation director. When I accepted this ministry back in 2020, I knew that God would provide three things: grace of office, confidence in making decisions, and laughter along the way. God not only provided me with these but also with much more, especially faithful and dedicated people who supported my ministry.
One of my favorite books is, “Praying our Goodbyes” by Sister Joyce Rupp. Praying our goodbyes is part of being a missioner – not only say it but mean it; not only do it but live it, as a poet once wrote. In moving on to my next assignment – our Formation House in Chicago – my bag is full of joy and my heart is bigger with the love of Christ, in whom we move, live, and have our being.
A goal of vocation ministry is to promote a culture of vocations. In doing so, I’ve met numerous young men who felt the call to follow Jesus as missionary priests or Brothers. My travels brought me into their homes where I learned sacred stories that continue to uplift my spirit. Journeying to Fatima as part of World Youth Day in Portugal left an indelible mark in my soul. During the closing Mass of this pilgrimage, Pope Francis announced that 2027’s World Youth Day would be hosted in South Korea. Be on the lookout for the Maryknoll pilgrimage going to Seoul! Attending Marian Days, the National Eucharistic Congress, and FOCUS’ SEEK 2026 conference exposed me to the richness of the Catholic Church here in the United States. How can I forget the time when Pope Leo gave a live interview last year at the National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC) where almost 14,000 youth gathered at Lucas Oil Stadium. He told us, “You should be able to continue with your life if artificial intelligence disappears tomorrow.”
I want to congratulate and welcome Maryknoll Brother Joe Bruener, M.M., chosen by leadership to become our next Vocation Director. I leave this office in good hands. For you who are reading this newsletter for the first time and feel curious about mission, about priesthood or Brotherhood, please visit our website: www.maryknollsociety.org/vocations.
Finally, I encourage you to use grace and confidence to dig deep, even deeper, and explore the motivations behind your calling. Do not be afraid! Move with purpose. And, let us journey together with you.
I’ll leave you with one of my favorite vocation stories, that of the young prophet Samuel. It’s a commentary on 1 Sam 3:1-10 that goes something like this: “Eli supports your vocation. I want you to see something here now. I want you to look at this with me. Can you see what I am noticing in you?”
The flight attendant has just announced, “tray tables and seats up, party is over.” Let us meet regularly through our prayer intentions.
With utmost gratitude,
– Fr. Rodrigo
