Called: What Happens After Saying Yes to God

by Casey Cole OFM

Overview

Whether you’re considering a religious vocation or simply trying to lead a Christ-centered life, Franciscan friar Casey Cole has news: Christian life doesn't end with a profession of faith or hearing of God's call. That's when it begins.

While the trappings of a professed Franciscan’s life may be different from that of a layperson, the inspiration and foundation are exactly the same: We are disciples of Christ called to live the Gospel in our world. Casey may wear brown while you wear red; he may work at a Church while you work in a school; and he may profess vows of poverty, chastity and obedience while you have yet to make any formal commitments in your life. The expressions may be different, but the life is the same.

Based on a series of contagiously enthusiastic blog posts Casey wrote while he was in formation, Called: What Happens After Saying Yes to God reflects on realities that are common to anyone who is serious about living a sincere Christian life and trying to follow the message of Jesus in the Gospels.

• All Christians must discern God’s call for them.
• All Christians struggle at times knowing how to pray.
• All Christians work to be in intimate relationships with others.
• All Christians are challenged to give of themselves so to rely more on God.
• All Christians have a mission of building up the kingdom.
• And all Christians, like it or not, fail along the way.

In his own path of discernment and discipleship, Casey has found a life that brings him amazement and wonder, sorrow and joy, encouragement and challenges, and he’s eager to share it all with everyone he can. Called offers inspiration and guidance to all those pursuing a life in Christ, in whatever form that may take. What you wonder, what you struggle with, what you experience in your daily life—you’re not alone.

The audio edition of this book can be downloaded via Audible.
 

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781632532411
Publisher:	Franciscan Media
Publication date:	03/07/2018
Pages:	192
Product dimensions:	5.50(w) x 8.50(h) x 0.56(d)

About the Author

Casey Cole, OFM, is a vowed religious in the Order of Friars Minor, commonly known as the Franciscans. He has a degree in religious studies with a minor in poverty studies from Furman University. In June 2019, he was ordained a priest. Learn more about Friar Casey at his BreakingintheHabit.org.

Table of Contents

Introduction: Saying Yes is Only the Beginning vii

Chapter 1 Discernment Never Ends 1

Chapter 2 Living in the Moment 29

Chapter 3 A Life to Share 57

Chapter 4 Seeking Insecurity 87

Chapter 5 What the World Needs 117

Chapter 6 Sometimes We Fail 149

Editorial Reviews

Casey Cole's new book is an engaging snapshot of the life of a young Franciscan: his hopes and dreams, his daily joys and struggles, and, especially, his relationship with God. Inviting, accessible, and inspirational, it's also a fine introduction to Franciscan spirituality, ever old but ever new.” —James Martin, SJ, author, The Jesuit Guide to (Almost) Everything
 
 “Intensely personal yet deeply ecclesial, Casey Cole’s story is my story and yours; it is the path of God’s pilgrim people. As a brother to Francis of Assisi, who chose poverty in this world, Friar Casey will help reveal the mysterious working of God’s grace in your quest to follow the Christ, Who became poor that we might be truly and eternally rich.” — Bishop Robert Reed, CatholicTV Network
 
 “By telling his own story of vocational discernment and initial formation, Casey Cole invites readers to reflect on the various ways God is calling them to say yes to God. This book will be especially helpful for young women and men who are looking for insight from someone who understands personally the challenges of evangelizing in a digital age, while also striving to live the Gospel with sincerity.” — Daniel P. Horan, OFM, Catholic Theological Union (Chicago), author, Dating God: Live and Love in the Way of St. Francis.
 
“Many people are curious as to what goes into the call to a vocation. Many have heard quick responses but few have had the opportunity to hear what Brother Casey is revealing about the call. He is clear, honest and offers useful insight into this important decision regarding time spent on earth and the impact on eternity. Keep several copies on hand to share with those who may be called but need direction.” — Jeff Cavins, founder, The Great Adventure Bible Study System
 



 

From the Publisher