A vocation is an occupation to which a person is especially drawn or for which they are suited, trained, or qualified. The term "vocation" has evolved over time, but it generally refers to a job or career that does more than pay the bills - it fills a person with a higher purpose, typically related to helping others and contributing to a greater societal good. The idea of vocation is central to the Christian belief that God has created each person with gifts and talents oriented toward specific purposes and a way of life. In the broadest sense, love is the fundamental and innate vocation of every human being.

Vocation can also refer to a divine call to service to the Church and humanity through particular vocational life commitments such as marriage to a particular person, consecration as a religious dedication, ordination to priestly ministry in the Church, and even a holy life as a single person. In a religious context, vocation is how God calls a person to serve Him in the world. God calls a person through Baptism and Confirmation to serve Him in a specific way of life, and it is important to determine which way of life God is calling a person to through a process of discernment.

In a secular context, vocation can refer to a particular occupation, business, or profession that a person is strongly inclined to follow. It is an expression of who a person is, of their very identity, and it is different from a job or a career. A persons vocation is an invitation from God, and although each person must make a decision about their vocation, that choice is a response to an invitation from God.

In summary, vocation can refer to a religious calling or a secular occupation to which a person is especially drawn or for which they are suited, trained, or qualified. It is an expression of a persons identity and can be a way for a person to serve God and others.