Vocation & Calling

Two of the most profound questions that people ask are: ‘who am I?’ and ‘what am I here for ?’

People ask these questions at different times in their lives. Maybe the reason why you have clicked on this part of The Church of England - Birmingham website is that you are asking these questions for yourself. If so, welcome…!

When Christians talk about ‘vocation’ or ‘calling’ we usually mean God inviting us to make a choice, for a particular job or way of life. But it is important to remember that vocation is about the whole of who we are. At baptism all Christians are called to be disciples of Jesus Christ. This means following Jesus and serving him in all that we are and all that we do. We believe that it is in this way we become more fully the person God created us to be.

Some people are called to serve God in their everyday lives:

  • at home - as a parent or carer
  • at work - as a teacher or a doctor, as an engineer or as a shop assistant
  • through involvement in the community - in care homes or voluntary associations

You may already be serving God in some of these ways.

Other people are called to a ministry in their church community:

  • in children’s or youth work
  • in music ministry
  • as a churchwarden
  • as a member of a pastoral team

You may already be serving God in some of these ways.

Some people are called for particular authorised ministries:

  • as a Deacon or a Priest
  • as a Reader
  • as a Church Army officer
  • as a Religious – a monk, a friar or a nun

We call the process of listening to God about what to do with our lives ‘discernment’.

  • You may feel certain about what God is calling you to, or you may be quite unsure.
  • You may feel confident and excited, or you may be confused and reluctant.
  • Maybe a number of people have been saying to you ‘have you ever thought of …?
  • Maybe you have had an experience of God speaking clearly.
  • Or maybe you have a persistent nagging feeling that what you are currently doing ‘is not enough’.

So what should you do next?

  • Pray through what you are thinking and feeling. Ask God to guide you.
  • Talk with someone who knows you well. Speak to your parish priest or chaplain.
  • Find out more information – there are lots of links you can follow from this website.

If you would like to speak  to someone about your sense of call or for more info, please send an email to vocations@cofebirmingham.com