Holy Cross Connection, Spiritual Gems from the Holy Cross Bookstore

Holy Cross Connection, #10: Metropolitan Nathanael of Chicago- Called to Serve

Oct 1, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Metropolitan Nathanael of Chicago, a prominent figure in the Greek Orthodox community and author, shares insights from his book, *Called to Serve*. He highlights the importance of vulnerability among clergy and encourages conversations between priests and parishioners. Metropolitan Nathanael recounts his personal journey to ordained ministry, exploring how both joy and pain shape one’s calling. He also emphasizes the evolving role of clergy and the necessity of presence in ministry, paving the way for deeper connections in faith.
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ADVICE

Discern Before You Decide

  • Test a perceived call to ordained ministry through sustained prayer, reflection, and conversations with trusted people.
  • Invite your priest, family, and bishop to help discern the calling before rushing to seminary.
INSIGHT

Callings Are Deeply Personal

  • God's call is never generic and is tailored to each person's life and capacities.
  • The same divine call appears differently to each person yet points to the same loving source.
INSIGHT

Stories Build Trust And Inspire Vocations

  • Sharing clergy call-stories bridges trust between bishops, priests, and laity and encourages vocational imagination.
  • Personal testimonies also attract young adults who see themselves reflected in varied journeys to ministry.
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