Explore a calling to ministry in Norwich

The Shared Vocation Space, run by the Diocese of Norwich, offers a chance for anyone to explore a calling to ministry through a series of sessions this autumn.

The five-part programme will take place once a month from September to January to support all those exploring a calling towards public licensed ministry, whether lay or ordained, in the Diocese of Norwich.
 
The Rev Dr Michael Fox, Diocesan Director of Ordinands said: “Once a month over the Autumn and Winter we invite all those who are wondering about exploring any kind of ministry to come together to hear vocation stories from many different contexts, to ask questions and to start to piece together where their own vocation story might take them.
 
“Packed with information, powerful stories and group discussion in a prayerful and worshipping environment, the Shared Vocation Space is a must for anyone wanting to explore what God may have in mind for them.”
 
The Shared Vocations Space launched in September 2022 and brings together the resources of the Licensed Lay Ministry team, the DDO Discernment team, Vocation Mentors and Vocation Champions.
 
The sessions outline information about the pathways leading to Licensed Lay Ministry (LLM) and to Ordained Ministry (becoming a priest). They provide the chance to hear vocation stories, explore Scripture, reflect on some key issues relating to each ministry, and explore questions in small groups.
 
Rev Michael said: “On Wednesday 13 September at 7pm at St Luke’s, New Catton we are delighted to welcome the Bishop of Lynn, the Rt Rev Jane Steen who will give the keynote address at the first session of this year’s Shared Vocation Space.
 
“In the first session, entitled “Here am I. Where are you?” Bishop Jane will consider how we might come to recognize that God is calling us to particular forms of service. How do we listen properly to God and how can we test out what we think He may be saying?”

A candidate who attended last year’s Shared Vocation Space said: “…thankyou to everyone involved in the Shared Vocation Space. It has been both an inspiration and a reassurance over the last few months and hearing everyone’s stories and experiences has really opened my eyes and heart to the beautifully diverse ways God touches our lives.”

The programme is designed to leave you well-placed to enter the formal selection process for either Licensed Local Ministry or Ordained Ministry.

“I’m so looking forward to meeting everyone who joins us on our next journey,” said Rev Michael.

If you would like to register your interest or receive more information about the Shared Vocations Space please email ddo@dioceseofnorwich.org