The word vocation comes from the Latin word which means: to be called. All of us are called by God to live the life of love and service.
The Catholic Church recognizes this calling in three sacraments: The Sacraments of Marriage, Holy Orders and Consecrated Life.
Matrimony
In Matrimony a baptized man and woman are united with each other as a sign of the unity between Jesus and his Church. Matrimony requires the consent of the couple, as expressed in the marriage promises. The couple and their wedding rings are the signs of this sacrament.
Holy Orders
In Holy Orders men are ordained as priests, deacons, or bishops. Priests serve as spiritual leaders of their communities, and deacons serve to remind us of our baptismal call to help others. Bishops carry on the teachings of the apostles. The signs of this sacrament are the laying on of hands and anointing with oil by the Bishop.
Single Life/Consecrated Life
Single Life /Consecrated Life: some people are called to the Single Life of service of others. These people are not called to ordination or marriage, serve others on their own or through religious communities.