A letter from the vocations director

Dear brothers and sisters,

As the new vocations director for the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to guide and support men discerning God’s call to the priesthood.

This sacred duty brings me back to my own journey in the seminary, reflecting on the pivotal moments that shaped my vocation. Almost 23 years ago, when I first applied to be a seminarian, I was fortunate to have Father Lowell Stieferman as the vocations director. His kindness and guidance were invaluable during my discernment.

I will never forget the visit I paid to Father Stieferman before his passing. As I was leaving, he asked for my blessing. It was one of the most humbling moments of my priesthood — my former mentor seeking my blessing.

The bond I share with my brothers in the priesthood of Jesus Christ is a testament to the legacy of those who came before us. I am deeply thankful for Father Stieferman and all the priests who have served faithfully in past generations. I am also grateful for the gifts that have been made by generations of Catholic families to support their formation.

Today, our mission is to prepare priests for generations to come. Priests who will serve your children’s children with the same dedication and love. We cannot educate and form men for the priesthood without your help. 

This sacred work of forming priests through seminary education is a significant and essential task. The journey of seminary formation, spanning seven to nine years, involves rigorous prayer, study and service, all of which require substantial financial support from the people like you.

I invite you to join us in this noble effort by making a gift for the education and formation of seminarians. Your generosity will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the Church. Your gifts ensure the men preparing for service as priests receive the formation they need to serve the community faithfully.

Thank you for your prayerful consideration and support. 

Sincerely in Christ, 

Rev. James A. Wickersham 
Vocations Director
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