What is a vocation? Where does discipleship and faith formation fit within the Church today? Archbishop David explores these topics in this study series, intended for both individuals and groups.
Its purpose is to give an opportunity for time to reflect on the nature of discipleship and vocation. These topics are more than merely an academic study, they are to do with the whole of life.
As you or your group progress through this series, watching each video and engaging with the selected scriptures, two things will happen: you will understand the word vocation more deeply and a vision for the mission and ministry of your church will begin to form.
... which means to call or be called. It is part of that set of words which include vocal. In the Bible we read that Jesus called his disciples. One example of where this is recorded is in Matthew 10:1. Jesus calls the disciples using a verb which in ancient Greek can only be used in what is known as the middle voice. It implies the caller and the called are both the subject of the call and they act together. Jesus is following his call as the Messiah and invites those he calls to participate in it with him.
Something we notice amongst the disciples of Jesus is that they join him in his vocation as they work out theirs. A good example of this comes from the feeding of the five thousand. This miracle is reported in each of the Gospels and the disciples are given the task of solving the problem of obtaining food. They provide it and Jesus provides the miracle.
It is hoped that this study will enable us to discover how we work with Jesus and each other to discern our personal vocation, the vocation of the church where we gather, and how these work together with God's intention for the Church.
If you are using the material here for your own discernment the best way to do so is to find a quiet place where you can watch the videos. Watch each video making a note of anything you think is important as you go along. Then watch it for a second time going back to the things you have noted and ask yourself why they stood out to you. Write down your answer.
Then read through any scripture passages mentioned and use the following questions from Gospel Based Discipleship to help you to think about the Bible passages:
- What word(s), idea(s) or sentence(s) stand out for you in the scripture you have read?
- What is Jesus saying to you?
- What is Jesus calling you to do?
Ideally you should take time to read the reading three times asking a different question each time. Again, write down anything that strikes you as important.
Repeat this process during all the sessions. By the end you will have developed a personal journal of where God might be calling you. It may then be time to go to discuss what you have discovered with others, perhaps the minister of your church.
If you intend to do this as a group, I suggest the same process as for an individual, remembering that you are looking for the vocation of your community as well as your own.
Take everything you have written down to the group meeting and spend time sharing what you have discovered in your own time of reflection. Then watch the video and read the scriptures together, asking the same three questions, but this time they should relate to the Church and its vocation:
- What word(s), idea(s) or sentence(s) stand out for your church in the scripture you have read?
- What is Jesus saying to us?
- What is Jesus calling us to do?
Someone should be designated to keep a journal for the church, though individuals may wish to do so as well.
One of the most important things during this time, whether doing this individually, or together is for you to be willing to step out of the way and try to hear God. You will probably find that God will speak to you out of the blue, when you are not engaged with intentionally seeking to hear. Be ready to remember or note things down.
In his charge to the 139th session of synod, Archbishop David requested that every parish make use of this study. Please let the bishop’s office know if your parish, congregation or group is using it by completing this online response form. We will also be happy to receive any feedback you wish to provide through this form.