Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

In a recent message, Todd Popson, associate director for vocations for the Archdiocese of Louisville, highlighted the important role coaches and teachers play in identifying and encouraging young people who may have a calling to religious life.

Popson drew from his personal experience as a father of eight and as a coach of more than 100 sports teams. He explained that working with youth in sports offers an opportunity to observe qualities that could indicate a vocation to the priesthood or religious life. "As coaches, we are constantly evaluating each player’s strengths and weaknesses. We are also looking for those innate talents and areas of potential growth. In our Catholic communities, it is particularly vital for people, such as coaches and teachers, to recognize those kids and young adults who have the characteristics that would make them a good priest or consecrated religious and to encourage them to listen for God’s call in their lives," he said.

Citing Father Brett Brannen, author of “To Save a Thousand Souls” and “A Priest in the Family,” Popson outlined four traits considered necessary for someone considering the priesthood: being a practicing Catholic, having at least average intelligence, demonstrating psychological and emotional stability, and possessing a love of God. He noted that regular participation in Mass and prayer reflects faith commitment; intellectual ability helps with seminary studies; emotional stability supports community needs; and love of God is seen through service.

Popson emphasized that these traits can be recognized during sports activities—such as teamwork, handling difficult situations, showing respect for others, and prioritizing group success over individual gain. He encouraged coaches and teachers not only to notice these qualities but also to speak up when they see them: "This can be as simple as telling one of your players or students that they would make a good priest. It also could be addressed by asking them if they have ever considered a religious vocation and by pointing out that they have the qualities that would serve them and the community well in that role."

He concluded by urging members of the Archdiocese of Louisville’s Catholic community to actively foster vocations: "Please help me in creating a culture of vocations in the Archdiocese of Louisville."