Pillar 3: Engage
Reaching Young Men Where They Are
Today’s young men spend more time on screens than in pews. They form opinions, explore identity, and build relationships online. If we want to reach them, we must meet them there—not with gimmicks, but with truth, beauty, and goodness. Most vocation promotion efforts still rely on flyers in the vestibule or a passing mention during Mass.
Engage is different.
We offer pathways to deeper exploration
Shepherding Future Shepherds deploys a targeted digital outreach that uses research-backed strategies to reach potential discerners—especially those between ages 16 and 30. Using social media ads, video shorts, influencer partnerships, and storytelling campaigns, we reach young men who are searching for purpose.
Engagement doesn’t end with a click
- Online inquiry forms that lead to personal follow-up
- Invitations to discernment webinars and retreats
- Connection with a mentor or vocation director

Engage goes beyond digital.
It helps young men take the first step—from curiosity to contact; converting digital interest to real-life discernment.
Want to help engage our youth?
Contact usOur Four Pillars
Shepherding Future Shepherds is a multi-phase, four-pillar initiative designed to cultivate religious vocations at every stage—from awareness to seminary acceptance.
elevate |
Improve the public’s view of the priesthood.
We uplift the priesthood by sharing inspiring videos and stories through ThankAPriest.com, helping Catholics rediscover its beauty, including those who may have a call to priestly ministry. Learn more
educate |
Offer accessible resources on the priesthood.
We provide resources to help men discover God’s will, understand whether He is calling them to priesthood, and navigate the early stages of discernment. Learn more
engage |
Invite young men to reflect on God’s call.
We reach out to young men in their everyday environments, introduce them to the joy and possibility of priestly life, and invite them to consider God’s call.
embark |
Provide mentorship and formation.
We connect men to the next phase of the discernment process by matching them with trusted mentors and spiritual directors for personal guidance. Learn more