April 8, 2026

St. James Parochial School in Gouverneur hosted a joyful and engaging Vocations Day on March 18, offering students a firsthand look at the many ways God calls His people to serve the Church. The day featured classroom presentations, interactive activities, and a lively vocation panel that quickly became the highlight of the event.

Students heard from Sister Mary Eamon, Father Jude Nnadibuagha, Father Jay Seymour, Pat and Shannon Looby, and Ben and Karley Wake, each of whom shared their personal stories of faith, discernment and service. Their witness offered a rich tapestry of vocations, religious life, priesthood, diaconal family life, and lay ministry, showing students that God’s call is both diverse and deeply personal.

Sister Mary Eamon spoke about the joy of consecrated life and the gift of serving God’s people with a heart fully devoted to Christ. Fathers Jude and Jay shared reflections on their journeys to the priesthood, emphasizing the importance of prayer, courage, and trust in God’s plan. The Loobys and the Wakes offered a warm and relatable perspective on living one’s vocation within marriage and family life, reminding students that holiness begins at home.

Throughout the panel, students asked thoughtful questions and engaged eagerly with each speaker. Their curiosity and enthusiasm underscored the importance of introducing young people to the beauty of vocations early in life.

Vocations Day at St. James not only celebrated the many ways God calls His people to serve but also encouraged students to listen for the quiet stirrings of God’s voice in their own hearts. The school community expressed gratitude to all who participated and helped make the day a meaningful moment of faith and inspiration.