YOUNGSTOWN — In a digital age where discerning one’s life calling can often be drowned out by noise, the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown’s Office of Vocations is launching a fresh wave of digital initiatives designed to help local faithful tune in to God’s voice.
The diocese has officially launched a brand new website: Doypriesthood.org, alongside an engaging bi-monthly vodcast titled “Echoing The Call.” The updates aim to make resources, stories, and practical tools more accessible for men and women considering the priesthood or religious life across Mahoning, Trumbull, Columbiana, Stark, Portage, and Ashtabula counties.
Hosted by Father William Wainio, Director of the Office of Vocations, the “Echoing The Call” vodcast features joyful, candid conversations focused on prayer, discernment, and hearing God’s voice. The inaugural episode highlights a special guest, Bishop David J. Bonnar, who shares his own faith journey.
“As Director of Vocations, one of my greatest privileges is accompanying young people as they discern where the Lord is leading them,” Fr. Wainio said. “It is inspiring to witness the Holy Spirit at work in hearts that are open to God’s call, and I am grateful to walk alongside them on this journey of discernment.”
While the digital push marks a modern step forward, the heart of the initiative relies on local parish engagement. Fr. Wainio is actively inviting parishes, schools, and local organizations to help foster a vibrant “culture of vocations” throughout the six-county diocese.
Specifically, the Office of Vocations is encouraging every parish in the diocese to establish a dedicated Vocations Committee to support, pray for, and promote callings within their local faith communities.
Parishes interested in launching a new committee—or existing teams seeking fresh ideas and guidance, can reach out to Fr. Wainio and the Office of Vocations at (330) 744-8451, ext. 368, or by email at wwainio@youngstowndiocese.org
