Sacraments – Frequent Confession and Eucharist keep one close to Christ and provide the grace needed to hear and follow His call. The best way to discern the priesthood is deep closeness with Jesus Christ, made possible by the Sacraments.

State of Grace – Freedom from serious sin clears the “static” so a man can perceive God’s movements without confusion or fear. We cannot think or see correctly when we are in sin.

Service & Sacrifice – A habit of giving oneself away reveals whether a man finds joy in the ultimate self-gift, the laying down of one's life.

Silence – Creates the interior space where God can speak; without silence, discernment becomes guesswork rather than listening.

Spiritual Accompaniment – No one discerns alone; a man needs good friends, supportive family, his priest, the Blessed Mother, the angels and saints, and—when he’s seriously discerning—a spiritual director to help him hear and interpret God’s call.

Scripture – God calls in Scripture the same way He calls now: through patterns of invitation, mission, and response; it becomes a blueprint for recognizing His voice.

Surrender – Letting go of fear, control, and personal timelines allows a man to say, “Lord, I want what You want,” which is essential for authentic discernment. Our Lady's FIAT is the perfect example. 

Stability of Life – Faithfulness in small commitments (prayer, school, responsibilities) shows whether a man has the reliability needed for priestly ministry.

Sanctity of Life – Daily pursuit of holiness opens the heart to desire God’s will above all else, making a man both receptive and courageous in following a vocation.

Sincerity – A heartfelt sincere desire to do God's will is the most important thing! The entails honesty with oneself and with God about motives and fears, and a willingness to go wherever God calls.