Dear Friends,

 

The 100 word challenge

 

Last month, across the Team, we thought about the theme of vocation and God’s calling on our lives.  I challenged my colleagues and those with lay ministries to complete the following sentence in 100 words or less.

 

“I am a … because … “

 

Hopefully you will have heard some of the responses to my challenge and we will publish them in a future publication.  I hope you found it interesting and that it gave you some insight as to why we do what we do.

 

So what about you?  Why do you do what you do?  How would you finish the sentence?  You might not be a priest or an ALM or a Reader but you do have another role at the church or in the parish.  You might even have more than one role.  Even if you only come to church to worship God you are part of our church family and have a role as a worshipper and a church member, encouraging others by your presence.  We are all called to serve God by using our gifts and abilities.  It’s always important to reflect from time to time as to whether God is wanting us to do something different for him.

 

There are things which can get in the way of us hearing God’s call on our lives.  At a meeting of the Deanery Synod in September, members were encouraged to think about some of the obstacles and how we could foster an environment in our churches where people can explore vocation in an open, engaging and safe place.  One of the speakers at the meeting said that there can be a reluctance by some to offer to take on a new role because of a fear of failure.  It can take courage to step out of our comfort zones and try something new.  It might not work out or what God intends for us.  The only way we find out is by giving it a go.  My hope and prayer is that the churches in our team are places where people feel they can explore and try things new.  My colleagues and I are here to support you and encourage you along the way.

 

Throughout October we have been using the Collect for Vocations at our Sunday services. Here it is for you to use in your own personal prayer time.

 

Almighty and everlasting God,

by whose Spirit the whole body of the Church

is governed and sanctified:

hear our prayer which we offer for all your faithful people,

that in their vocation and ministry

they may serve you in holiness and truth

to the glory of your name;

through our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ,

who is alive and reigns with you,

in the unity of the Holy Spirit,

one God, now and for ever.  Amen.

 

A long time ago, when I was wondering about vocation, a friend said this to me;-

 

“Make yourself available and God will make you capable”.

 

I know the truth of this simple statement in my life.  I hope that you do too.

 

With love and prayers, Carol

 

PS Have a go at the 100 word challenge.  If you do I would be really pleased to see what you have written.  Thanks.