One of our current Diocesan Priorities is that every Christian should be encouraged to explore their vocation. The Vocations Team in the Diocese is passionate about helping people to understand and respond to the call of God, so that their gifts can be used in the service of the Church and the Kingdom.
The Church of England has launched a major new initiative to encourage young people to explore their vocation to ordained ministry. Thirty years ago, 70% of candidates recommended for training were under 30 – today this figure is nearer 14%.
Within the Diocese we have already begun to address this issue – as we have a ‘vocations group’ for 16-20 year olds. We now have 5 members, and are meeting approximately quarterly – and maintaining email contact in the meantime. (Next meetings 29 th April and 6 June). Please let the DDO if you know of someone who would like to join the group.
Please pray for this initiative both locally and nationally. You could use this prayer:
Heavenly Father,
your Church needs young men and women to serve as ordained ministers, and to be channels of your presence through word and sacrament.
Give them grace to hear your call, and to respond to it with courage and generosity. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord.
