In New Book, Nigerian Catholic Priest Highlights Pathways in Discerning God’s Call, “value of growing up” in His House

In the book, Fr. Ihesinachi also recognizes the influential role of Archbishop Fortunatus Nwachukwu, the Nigerian-born Secretary of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Evangelization, had on his response to God’s call.

Referring to his parents and Archbishop Nwachukwu, he said, “Their motivation made me give my all in everything I did, which is why this book is aptly titled ‘When God Calls’; one must respond to God's call, embark on the journey with Him, and fulfill the mission He sets forth.” 

In the book, the Nigerian Catholic Priest also draws inspiration from the biblical story of Samuel and emphasizes the importance of responding promptly to God's call. 

He explained during the August 3 interview, “Samuel's readiness to serve his master in the house of God inspired me. His humility and dedication are qualities I strive to embody and convey through my book.”

“We live in a noisy world where many ignore their spiritual life. I want to remind people, especially the youth, to pay attention to God's voice,” the OSJ member said, adding, “As our Congregation's founder, St. Joseph Marello, said, 'Noise does no good, and good makes no noise.' God calls us to good, which is silent but profound. We must listen more to act better,” Fr. Ihesinachi said.

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He went on to highlight the importance of discernment, saying, “Aspiring Priests and Religious need someone to help them in their journey to the Priesthood or Religious Life when they hear the voice of God; that is where mentors come in to play their role.”

“Every human person needs a guardian, just like Eli guided Samuel when he heard the voice of God,” he said and added, “When you hear the voice again, just say: speak Lord, your servant is listening. Eli played that role in helping Samuel discern the voice of God.”

Similarly, Fr. Ihesinachi said, “formators in seminaries, guidance in schools, and parents help the young understand and not be carried away by the many other voices they hear in society.”

The structured environments in houses and institutes of formation “allow discerners to engage in deep prayer, reflection, and spiritual exercises crucial for understanding God’s call,” he said.

He added, “Through regular spiritual direction, formators and novice masters guide individuals to recognize and interpret the movements of the Holy Spirit within their hearts. They offer wisdom and insights drawn from their own experiences and the teachings of the Church.”

He continued, “Through these experiences, aspirants can better understand their strengths, weaknesses, and where they feel most called to serve. Regular evaluations and honest, compassionate feedback ensure that discerners remain grounded and realistic about their vocation,” the Nigerian Catholic Priest further said. 

The new book is a valuable resource for Seminaries, Fr. Ihesinachi said, adding that “it will help those aspiring to the Priesthood understand how to listen to God's call, embark on their spiritual journey, and fulfill their mission.”

“For those training Seminarians, it offers insights into teaching and mentoring the future leaders of the church,” he said about his book that goes for US$0.61.

Abah Anthony John is a Nigerian Journalist with great enthusiasm and interest for Catholic Church Communication and Media Apostolate. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Mass Communication from Benue State University, Makurdi, Benue State Nigeria. He has vast experience in Print,  Electronic and Multi-Media Production.