Washington D.C., Jun 25, 2008 / 21:06 pm
Four weeks into his new job, Fr. John McLaughlin says that that his position as the first national vocations director for the Archdiocese of the Military has so far been “a pleasurable experience.”
“The military personnel have been very welcoming,” he told CNA, adding that he has “met great service people” who are interest in the priesthood.
Early this month, Father McLaughlin, 50, left St. Monica Parish in Methuen, Massachusetts to become the first national vocations director for the Archdiocese of the Military, located in Washington, D.C. The Associated Press reports that in the new position, the priest will travel to bases around the U.S. “speaking to troops about following a commitment to their country with commitment to their religion.”
When he received the call from the Archdiocese of the Military, he was hesitant to accept the new title. He explained to CNA that the call was completely “out of the blue.” He wasn’t sure what the position would entail since it was brand new and he enjoyed serving the Church as a pastor.