Behold, here are the winners of the Vocatus Es Contest. I thoroughly enjoyed all of the submissions, and I will revel in rewarding those whom democracy has labeled above average.

In first place: Anonymous’ poster “Here I am, Send Me” – The submission earned him a Cleansing Fire t-shirt signed by yours truly. Second place goes to the following two submissions: “Feed My Sheep” by A.G. and “Thou Art a Priest” by Nod. You two will receive a Cleansing Fire holy medal. Third place (10 Cleansing Fire prayer cards) goes to “Deny Yourself” by Anonymous and Ben’s “Are You Lost” humorous submission. I will email you if you have won, and we can work out your award’s details.

In our zeal to post submissions, we accidentally overlooked one. To our faithful reader who was lost in the labyrinth of our excitement, I extend the title of “Lector Mirabilis.” Again, expect an email if you were mentioned in this announcement, so that I can properly disperse the loot across the continent.

The Diocese of Rochester is trying (and I give them some credit for that) to recruit men to the priesthood through these posters you’ve seen here and in your parish atria and gathering spaces. However, most men aren’t called through feel-good posters, but one-on-one interaction with priests. There is something so fraternal about the priesthood, something which gets forgotten or trivialized in these posters. Sure, the little boy at the altar looks cute enough. “Aww, he’s soo wittle!” But that’s not what rouses vocations awareness.

And so I’m challenging you all to design two posters:

#1 will be a serious poster, asking young men to answer the call to the diocesan priesthood.

#2 will be a comedic poster, embracing the fruits of your snarkiness. I will post ALL submissions, presuming they aren’t inappropriate, and we will vote on them in due time. 

You can submit for one or both categories.

What do you get for all your hardwork? How about a brand new Cleansing Fire t-shirt! If you want, I’ll even autograph it for you. Just promise you won’t sell it on eBay. Yes, I’m just that awesome. Runners up will receive, in order of achievement, a Cleansing Fire medal for second place, and 10 Cleansing Fire prayer cards for third place.

So get to work! I want to see your Vocations Awareness Posters! Send your submissions in the Vocatus Es Contest to me at cleansingfire@live.com. Do it now, and maybe