The Vocations Director and Vocations Promoter for the Diocese of Northampton have joined colleagues from across England and Wales in Rome for their annual national meeting, combining reflection and discussion with a memorable opportunity to deepen their sense of communion with the universal Church.
Fr Pius Amoako, Diocesan Vocations Director, and Fr Daniel Rooke, Vocations Promoter, attended the gathering from 2–6 November 2026. The annual meeting brings together those involved in vocation promotion from dioceses and religious communities to share experiences, exchange ideas and explore how best to support those discerning a call to the priesthood and consecrated life.
A particular highlight was the celebration of Mass at the tomb of St Peter in St Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday 4 November. It was a deeply moving occasion, during which prayers were offered for the Church, for those discerning their vocation, and for all involved in vocation promotion and formation.
Following Mass, the group attended the General Audience with Pope Leo XIV. The opportunity to see the Holy Father, and to have photographs taken with him, was a special privilege and a powerful reminder of the unity and universality of the Catholic Church.
Alongside these spiritual highlights, the meeting provided valuable time to consider the challenges and opportunities facing vocation ministry today. Discussions explored the importance of fostering a culture of vocation in parishes, schools and the wider Catholic community, as well as providing appropriate pastoral accompaniment for those exploring where God may be calling them.
The gathering also reinforced that promoting vocations is about much more than encouraging people to consider priesthood or religious life. It means creating an environment in which individuals feel able to explore God’s call, ask questions and discern their future with confidence, supported by prayer, guidance and the wider Church.
Reflecting on the experience, Fr Pius said:
“The meeting was very worthwhile professionally and also spiritually enriching. It reaffirmed that vocation promotion is a shared responsibility in the Church, requiring prayer, commitment, cooperation and strong pastoral support.
“Every person’s journey is different, and we must be ready to listen, offer good spiritual guidance and provide the opportunity for genuine discernment. I returned with renewed determination to continue supporting those who are exploring their vocation.”
The meeting in Rome offered a valuable opportunity for fellowship, learning and spiritual renewal, strengthening the commitment of those working to help others recognise and respond to God’s call.
Please keep in your prayers all those discerning a vocation to the priesthood and consecrated life, and those who accompany and support them on their journey.
