From the Earliest Years to the Primary Level:
 
*Help them to realize that prayer is a time to speak and listen to a loving God; let them see you pray.
*Show evidence of God’s love for your child, other people, and the beauty of creation.
*Pray as a family at meals and at bedtime, when you travel, or have special needs.
*Read stories and talk about Jesus calling His Apostles to follow Him.
*Read and talk about Mary’s “yes” to God.
*Give your children an age-appropriate bible and a book about the saints when they first receive the Sacraments.
*Make a commitment for your child to receive religious education that will truly direct their lives.
 
 
From Intermediate to Junior High Level:
 
*Talk about using talents to serve others.
*Pray as a family for vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life.
*Provide literature or media about people who have responded to God’s call to serve Him.
*Talk about he various roles the ministers in your parish provide.
*Engage in open and healthy conversations with your children about their hopes and dreams.
*Encourage them to participate in and contribute to parish and diocesan activities.
*Continue to keep family prayer as part of your daily life; invite your children to offer prayers.
 
 
From High School to Young Adult Level:
 
*Encourage your high school student to pray, reflect, and seek God’s desire for their lives.
*Discuss all options for your child’s future, including a life of service in Church ministry.
*Be honest and fair when you talk about vocations to the Church; there are sacrifices in every choice we make, just as there are also many rewards.
*Encourage your teens and young adults to participate in service projects offered by the parish or the diocese.
*If your teen or young adult has indicated an interest in the priesthood or consecrated life, encourage them to attend a Discernment retreat or activity, or to visit one of the many Religious Orders in the diocese. Help them to find a mentor, perhaps your parish priest or a woman religious in a community nearby. Have them contact the Vocation Office or visit the website Dubuque Priesthood for information.
*If they are away at school, encourage them to get involved with life at the university parish and campus ministry activities.
*Continue to pray for your children daily, especially during these years when they are making important decisions about their future.
*Have the confidence that God knows what is best and that His love and guidance will never fail you or your child.