Virtue and Vocation

BISMARCK, ND–A father, coach, lawyer, and judge walk into a room. Would you be surprised to hear that every one of these roles is filled by only one person? 

Judge Robert J. Conrad Jr., author of “John Fisher and Thomas More: Keeping Their Souls While Losing Their Heads” visited the University of Mary on Friday to discuss the role of virtue and vocation in the modern day–how small habits shape our call to mission. 

Conrad, father of five and graduate of the University of Virginia Law School, used his parental and academic wisdom to inspire students to “glorify God in the middle of the world.” 

Conrad argues that young people today experience “a yearning for what’s next” because of the societal pressures of this age. He said, “Excessive ambition corrupts…the purposeful life is accomplished by performing well, the tasks set before us."

“Excellence,” he said, is found “in striving after God’s will.”

He presented a simple approach to the question that many young people ask: “What should I do?” 

Conrad spoke of the concept of vocation in light of the lives of Thomas More and John Fischer. Men of the late 15th century, friends of King Henry VIII and fathers: Fisher a priest and More a married man–these men exemplified greatness through the simplicity of vocation, calling, and mission; reminding us that our missions are–as Conrad said–“not occupationally limited.” 

Conrad explained that More was a father and lawyer who, like many young people of today in their early twenties, did not know what he wanted to do with his life. 

Rather than leaving the young to fend for themselves in the process of self-discovery, Conrad left the students of the university with four practical tips, inspired by More. 

Firstly, he said, “Proverbs chapter three verses five and six.”

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding; in all your ways, acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight”

Secondly, he said, “Do the work.” 

Thirdly, the students were told to pursue excellence for the glory of God. 

Lastly, he said, “I would urge you [young people] to be a blessing. To bring the faith to the public square.” 

Conrad stressed that even those living “hectic lives” can “figure out that balance of life” through little acts of daily virtue that will prepare them to find confidence and to heroically live for Christ.