Vocations Library

Shall I Be a Priest?

by Rev. William Doyle, S.J.  •  A practical, spiritual guide for discerning the priesthood.

The harvest indeed is great, but the labourers are few. Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he send labourers into his harvest. (Luke 10:2)

About this Pamphlet

Fr. Doyle's pamphlet "Shall I be a Priest?" first appeared in March 1915 and by 1943, 160,000 copies had been distributed in ten different languages.

This pamphlet is written for young men who sense—even faintly—that Our Lord may be calling them to the priesthood. Fr. Doyle speaks plainly and pastorally: what a vocation is, how it is tested, why delay is dangerous, and how to seek God’s will with sincerity and courage.

    Shall I Be a Priest? is a practical guide for young men seriously considering the call to the priesthood. Drawing on his experience as a preacher, confessor, and spiritual director, Fr. William Doyle explains the nature of a true vocation, the signs by which it is recognized, and the dangers of hesitation or delay. Written with clarity and firmness, the pamphlet urges the reader to approach discernment with prayer, sincerity, and generosity, trusting that God does not call without also providing the grace to respond.

    Imprimatur

    Nihil Obstat: Joannes J. Coyne, S.J. — Cens. Theol. Dep.

    Imprimi potest: Eduardus, Archiep. Dublinen., Dublini, die 4 Maii, 1929, Hiberniae Primas.

    (Included for the reader’s reference.)

How to Use This Pamphlet

A prudent and prayerful way to read for discernment.

This pamphlet should be read in a spirit of quiet reflection, with prayer, honesty, and a genuine openness to whatever God may ask.

  • Begin with prayer: ask Our Lord for light, generosity, and courage to embrace whatever He may ask of you.
  • Read slowly: take a few pages at a time (10–15 minutes), then pause for silence and reflection.
  • Examine yourself honestly: note which passages bring peace, conviction, resistance, or fear, and reflect on why.
  • Seek guidance: bring your questions and concerns to a traditional priest or confessor who knows your soul.

What This Pamphlet Will Help You Discern

  • The nature of a true priestly vocation.
  • The difference between a passing inclination and a genuine call from God.
  • The dangers of unnecessary delay once God’s will becomes clear.
  • The common fears and objections that arise when God calls a soul to greater sacrifice.
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Shall-I-be-a-priest- Fr. Doyle

Vocations Office

Mater Dei Seminary
c/o Vocations Director
7745 Military Ave.
Omaha, NE 68134

Phone: (402) 571-4404
Email: Vocations Director