Called & Chosen: How to Write a Card for a Catholic Ordination or Religious Milestone
How to Write a Card for a Catholic Ordination or Religious Milestone
If you’re wondering how to write a card for a Catholic ordination, religious profession, or milestone like a final vow or jubilee, you’re not alone. These events are deeply meaningful—not just for the person entering religious life, but for the whole Church.
Ordinations, final professions, and jubilees are sacred moments that deserve more than a quick “Congratulations!” on a card. And yet, it can be hard to know what to say, especially if you’re not familiar with religious life. Here’s how to write something personal, meaningful, and faith-filled.
What Is a Catholic Ordination or Religious Milestone?
In the Catholic Church, ordination is the sacrament through which a man becomes a deacon, priest, or bishop. It’s a lifelong commitment to serve the Church through preaching, administering the sacraments, and spiritual leadership.
Religious professions—like when a sister or brother takes final vows—are also lifelong commitments to follow Christ in poverty, chastity, and obedience. Jubilees (25, 50, or more years of religious life) are celebrated as milestones of grace and perseverance.
Whether you’re attending the ordination of a new priest, celebrating a nun’s final vows, or honoring a longtime servant of God, your card is an opportunity to affirm and encourage their “yes” to God’s call.
How to Write a Card for a Catholic Ordination or Religious Profession
Here are 5 tips for writing a meaningful message that celebrates both the person and the vocation:
1. Start with Gratitude or Joy
Open with something personal and heartfelt. For example:
“What a joy to witness your ‘yes’ to Christ and His Church!”
or
“We’re so grateful for your vocation and the gift of your life in service to God.”
2. Acknowledge the Calling
Remind them that their decision is a powerful witness:
“Your faith, courage, and love for Christ are an inspiration to us all.”
“Thank you for responding to God’s call with such generosity.”
3. Include a Scripture or Saint Quote
Some powerful Scripture options include:
-
Jeremiah 3:15 – “I will give you shepherds after my own heart…”
-
John 15:16 – “You did not choose me, but I chose you…”
-
Isaiah 6:8 – “Here I am, send me.”
Or use a saint quote, like this one from St. John Vianney:
“The priesthood is the love of the heart of Jesus.”
4. Offer a Prayer or Blessing
End your message with a prayerful note:
“May God bless your ministry with joy, wisdom, and holiness.”
or
“We’ll be praying for you as you begin this new journey of faith and service.”
5. Keep it Personal
If you have a memory, conversation, or connection to the person’s journey, include it. Even a simple line like, “I still remember when you shared your vocation story—what a gift!” makes the card feel authentic and meaningful.
Examples of What to Write in a Catholic Ordination Card
For a new priest:
“Father, may your hands bring healing, your words speak truth, and your life always reflect the heart of Christ. Thank you for your ‘yes’ to the priesthood.”
For a nun or sister taking final vows:
“Congratulations on your final vows! May your life as the bride of Christ be full of joy, holiness, and peace. Thank you for living a life of total surrender to God.”
For a religious jubilee:
“Celebrating your [25/50+] years of faithful service! Your perseverance and holiness continue to bear fruit in the lives of so many. Thank you for your witness.”
Looking for a Beautiful Card to Match Your Message?
At Catholic Paper Company, we offer Catholic ordination cards, religious profession cards, and cards for all types of sacred milestones