The Real Definition Of Discernment And What It Means For Each One Of Us

It’s a common misconception that discernment is all about waiting around, listening for "the call". The Franciscan Friars of the Atonement founded a House of Discernment in New York City, because they know that discernment is often a process!

"To discern" is derived from the Latin "dis" (apart) "cernere" (to separate). At its heart, discernment is taking the time to look at one’s life in a new way - praying and taking the time to separate out your thoughts and experiences and listen to how God is speaking to your heart.

From its Latin roots, it is clear that to discern, one must make the time and effort to go through this process.

The Franciscan Friars of the Atonement are inviting single, Catholic men (ages 18-40) who live in North America and are discerning a religious vocation to apply to live in their House of Discernment in New York City for at least three months and up to a year. Throughout that time, you would have the opportunity to pray and live in community with the Friars while serving others and more actively discern where the Lord is calling you.