VOCATION TESTIMONIES

Fr. Juan Jose Chaparro, CMF
Avenida Constitucion, 1077,
1151 Buenos Aires, Argentina

How did your missionary vocation start?
I lived in a small village where only missionaries could go. One of them attracted me for his enthusiasm and lifestyle.

How was your vocation discernment?
The seminary helped me in my discernment. Of course, I left my house and my family. I do not know what would had happened if I took a different direction in life. It was not easy for me to make a decision till I understood that the Lord was calling me. At that moment, and taking the whole responsibility, I made my final decision.

What was the reaction of your parents when you told them that you wanted to become a Claretian?
My mother supported me; my father left me free.

Do you think it is worth to become missionary nowadays?
Yes, because to live consecrated to God, trying to follow Jesus, gives life to the person; and sharing the Gospel gives life to others helping them to walk their paths of life.

What would you advise these young people who are now in their vocation discernment?
That they will actually experience this way of life and not to remain in just thinking about the possibility of this life for them. Of course, sharing their discernment with someone who can serve as an echo, who can understand.