World Day of Prayer for Vocations is observed each year on the Fourth Sunday of Easter. This special day invites the global Church community to pray for all those who are discerning God’s call in their lives and to celebrate individuals who live out their vocation with faith, dedication, and service.

In recognition of this meaningful day, we highlight Gordie Van Putten, Chaplain at St. Joseph’s Catholic Secondary School, whose vocation is lived with deep commitment and care. Gordie mentors and leads with unwavering faith, inspiring students and staff through his genuine presence and compassion. He has a remarkable gift for making people feel seen, valued, and supported, meeting them exactly where they are in their faith and spirit.

Through his daily actions, Gordie brings warmth, kindness, and encouragement to the Panther school community. His leadership helps nurture faith in meaningful ways, creating opportunities for prayer, service, and connection that strengthen the spiritual life of the school.

As shared by Nicole Desjardins, staff member and Religion teacher at St. Joseph’s:

“Gordie’s presence is seen, heard and felt throughout St. Joe’s every day. His leadership and inspiring faith fuel so many projects such as Team Alpha and Panther Power. These groups give back to the community in so many ways. Gordie gathers the school collectively in prayer every morning, sharing intentions and messages of hope with our Panther family.”

With a great sense of humour, a well-known love of his family and the Toronto Blue Jays, Gordie brings joy and authenticity to his vocation, reminding us that faith is lived not only through prayer, but through relationships, service, and shared moments of connection.

On this World Day of Prayer for Vocations, we give thanks for our amazing school Chaplains, our parish priests, and for all those who serve our school communities by answering God’s call with generosity and love. Their vocations help shape environments rooted in faith, hope, and compassion.