Vocations

Jesus called his first disciples with the words, 'Follow me' - and he offers the same invitation today. He calls each of us to use our gifts and talents in Christlike ways in the world around us.

In responding to God's call and finding our place among God's people, we accept commitments that shape our identity and the roles we fulfil. Vocation, is simply another word for the life-shaping commitment God is calling you to.

This calling emerges through a prayerful relationship with God and in conversation with other Christians. An understanding of vocation is informed by experience and develops alongside others who encourage us and share in our discernment.

We have come to understand Christian vocation in three areas:

Social vocations - our place within the workplace and the community and how we contribute to the common good;

Relational vocations - our calling in relationship to God and other people such as family, friends and neighbours;

Ministerial vocations - our calling to serve and build up the church community and equip it for mission. 

If you have a sense that you may be called to ministry, take the next step - talk to trusted friends and your church leader and look up your diocesan vocations team.

Aged 18-30? Consider attending the next Step Forward event which is taking place in Exeter to find out more about ministry.

Mythbusting ministry

Seven common misconceptions about life in ministry

“You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit – fruit that will last.”

John 15:16