As we celebrate the newest priests in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati this month, it is good to reflect on how each one of us supports vocations. Perhaps, we have prayed the archdiocesan Prayer for Vocations at Mass. Maybe, we also encouraged someone to consider the priesthood or consecrated religious life. But, is there more we can do?

Members of our two local Serra Clubs say yes, going above and beyond to support new vocations. They offer prayer, encouragement, and events to support priests, deacons, and consecrated religious serving in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati and beyond.

Founded in 1935 when lay people came together in Seattle to promote and foster vocations, Serra International was named after the great Franciscan missionary of the western Spanish missions, St. Junipero Serra. Today, the group is recognized by the Vatican and still led by laity. Two Serra Clubs operate locally: one in the city of Cincinnati and the other in the Northern part of the archdiocese.

The Cincinnati Serra Club marks a milestone this year—55 years of service and prayer in support of vocations. “We view our role as affirming everyone and helping young people understand that there are five vocational paths they may be called to follow,” said Cincinnati President Martha Stegbaur. “Our mission is to encourage and support these vocations.”

The Cincinnati Serrans marked this emerald anniversary at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Peter in Chains on March 12 with a late morning Mass and an address by Serra International President Emanuel Costa during lunch in the Cathedral’s Synod Hall.

Events organized by the Cincinnati Serra Club include receptions after ordinations and professions, a dinner after the Chrism Mass, and monthly meetings at the Cathedral. Additional activities support vocations and the local clergy by mailing greeting cards of support, hosting a monthly holy hour, providing a club retreat, and offering youth vocation grants.

In the north, Linda Moore, President of the Cincinnati Northwest Deanery Club, noted  their successful annual Spaghetti Dinner held this past March in Russia, Ohio. “This year, we received over $6,000 in donations, which will go into a special Seminarian Fund to help them with unexpected expenses,” she said.

Fr. Michael Willig, Vocations Director, leads the northern club’s annual Stations for Vocations, offering the Stations of the Cross for an increase in vocations. The Northwest Deanery Club also hosts a Christmas season dinner for all seminarians, religious postulants, their parents, local priests, and consecrated religious. Those in formation receive a scholarship check during the event.

While these activities are important, both clubs are grounded by their prayer for vocations. “Our members are committed to support, encourage, and pray for all religious vocations during holy hours, daily Mass, and personal prayers,” Moore said.

“Meetings start and end with prayer,” said Stegbauer. “We have First Friday holy hours each month with a rosary and litanies for priests; these are open to anyone who would like to attend.” Both clubs offer prayer cards and books with the litanies and other prayers for individuals to use.

“As a Serran, I feel blessed to be able to grow in faith while supporting our Church,” Stegbaur said. “Seeing the joy in these men as they answer God’s call is truly a wonderful experience.”

Membership in the club is open to all and both groups have ideas to expand their outreach. “My hope is that we’ll get new members to help us spread the word about Serra International and Serra USA,” said Moore. Serra Clubs consist of men and women from all walks of life, age, and profession. You do not need to be connected to a priest or consecrated religious to be a part of your local Serra Club—but by the end of the first event, you probably will be