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Inspiring Vocations at SEEK25

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Carmelite Friars Inspire Vocations at SEEK25 in Salt Lake City
From January 1–5, 2025, over 17,000 college students and young adults from across the United States gathered at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah, for SEEK25, one of the largest Catholic conferences in the country. Among the participants were several Carmelite friars, together with the Vocation Office of the Province, who actively engaged with attendees to share the Catholic faith and the unique charism of the Carmelite Order.
The five-day event, organized by the Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS), offered an opportunity for young Catholics to deepen their relationship with Christ, celebrate the sacraments, and discern their callings in life. It was a fitting platform for the Carmelite friars to introduce their spiritual tradition rooted in contemplation, prayer, and community.
Throughout the conference, our friars hosted a booth that became a welcoming space for discussions about faith, discernment, and the joys of religious life. With warmth and authenticity, they shared stories of their own vocations and the rich history of the Carmelite Order, inspiring many young people to consider their own path to holiness. Several attendees expressed a deep appreciation for the friars’ presence and the chance to learn about Carmelite spirituality. One college student at the University of North Dakota remarked, “Meeting the Carmelites has opened my eyes to a life centered on prayer and service. It’s something I want to explore further.”
The event proved fruitful for the Vocation Office, as numerous young men expressed interest in discerning a call to religious life, particularly within the Carmelite Order. The friars provided guidance, encouragement, and resources for those considering a vocation, planting seeds of faith and hope for the future of the Church.
Father Anthony Trung Nguyen, O.Carm., Director of Vocations for the Province, reflected on the experience: “SEEK25 was an incredible opportunity to witness to the joy of being a Carmelite and to invite young men and women to listen to God’s call in their lives. We’re excited about the seeds planted here and pray for the grace to nurture them in the years to come.”
The presence of our friars at SEEK25 highlights our ongoing commitment to fostering vocations and accompanying young people in their faith journeys. As we continue our mission, the fruits of our efforts at SEEK25 will undoubtedly contribute to the future of the Church and the growth of the Carmelite family.
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