God's plan for you
Is God calling you? The good news is, yes. The words Jesus spoke to the fishermen by the Sea of Galilee, 'Follow me', are still being spoken into the hearts of those who are willing to hear. On this page we explore: What we mean by calling We also have dedicated pages on What we mean by callingYou might have a burning inner conviction that God has a plan for you, or a nagging feeling that just won’t go away. It can also be called, a vocation. Often the starting point for exploring a Christian ministry is simply to say to God, like the boy Samuel, “Here I am” (1 Samuel 3.2) God’s calling involves recognising your God given gifts and looking for opportunities to use them. Through God’s grace, you might discover what you are being called into.
We all have a callingIt really could be you God is calling. In fact, God calls men and women of all ages, backgrounds, and ethnic groups, each to play their part in building his kingdom. Some Christians will be called to ordained ministries, for example, a vicar running a parish. Some will serve as licensed lay ministers. And of course, all Christians are called to be witnesses and disciples in their home, school, workplace and local church.
Ways to live out that callThere are so many possibilities of how God might be calling you to express your faith and serve others:
We could go on....each is valuable in the sight of God, and we have lots of ways to help you discover God's plan for you. Ordained ministry
Next steps
Here are some of the opportunities we have available to help you explore your calling: 'It's Your Calling' days
'It’s Your Calling' days are reflective days, aimed at those exploring where God may be calling them. They are an opportunity to look at our individual journeys of faith and the gifts that God has given us, as well as the Biblical understanding of vocation. The day gives an opportunity to meet others on a similar quest and to take time to think where God could be calling. After an It’s Your Calling day, there is an opportunity to make contact with one of our Vocations Adviser, for an informal chat. 'It's Your Calling' days are usually held three times each year, and generally take place during the day on a Saturday.
What's your calling booklets
Our downloadable leaflets aim to help you explore the different paths available to help you live out your vocation. Vocations advisers
Vocations Advisers are not there to promote one type of ministry, but to listen to your story and to help discern what God might be saying; they are there for you. If at any time you would like to speak with a Vocations Adviser, you should first speak with your incumbent and then contact the Vocations Adviser in your Archdeaconry. Bromley and Bexley Archdeaconry Rochester Archdeaconry Tonbridge Archdeaconry Each Archdeaconry has a team of men and women, lay and ordained, who are able to help. You can also email the Diocesan team direct on: vocations@rochester.anglican.org.
Gifts and talents need developing so, when you are clear as to what your future calling or ministry might be, we’ll be delighted to help you find the appropriate training.
Other useful websites and links
Key Contacts
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