Dear Friends in Christ,
Today, I am announcing a special campaign to identify young men in our diocese who, through God’s providence, could have a vocation to the priesthood. The campaign, entitled Called by Name, will take place on April 25-26, 2026.
As you know, the Diocese of Rockford has a continuing need for “more workers for the harvest.” I firmly believe that many of our future priests will come from our own parishes and schools, but we need the entire Church to identify them, so that we can accompany them as they discern their vocation.
I invite all Catholics to submit the names of young men that they would like to honor. Note that these men do not need to have expressed a desire to be priests. They simply need to love Christ and the Church, exhibit a strong faith, and have a heart for service.
I will send each of these young men a letter of congratulations and encouragement. In addition, our Vocation Team will offer support as they discern their vocations, especially by inviting them to summer discernment events.
This initiative is of living importance to the Church and to the faithful of Rockford, and I ask you to participate thoughtfully. Please join me in praying that the Lord will raise up many new shepherds for the Church.
With prayerful best wishes, I am,

Faithfully yours in Christ,

Most Reverend David J. Malloy
Bishop of Rockford