Exploring Vocation

Exploring a Call from God

A pair of hands held open

The Methodist Church believes that every disciple is called to service and witness. Because we are unique human beings part of that call is to become fully ourselves that we may exercise our gifts in God’s service. Sometimes particular gifts need development through engagement with a learning programme. Sometimes people feel called to explore a calling to exercise a public ministry in the life of the church.

In the Methodist Church there are a number of recognized lay ministries which can be supported through training such as local preaching, stewarding, lay work, children’s work. Circuit and District resources are available to support this work. Contact our local training officer for more information.

In addition the Methodist Church has two orders of ministry which are authorized by the church nationally through ordination:

  • Deacon – a deacon is called to a ministry of witness and service. Deacons are public representative persons who by their words and deeds seek to draw others into discipleship and wholeness of life. They are also members of a dispersed religious order with a rule of life. To find out more visit the MDO website.
  • Presbyter – a presbyter is a minister of word and sacrament. Presbyters are public representative persons who by their words and deeds proclaim the gospel. They also represent the authority of the Methodist Conference and are appointed to lead communities of faith.

If you would like to explore whether your call is to a lay ministry or to an ordained ministry click here to find out about one of our vocation days.

Candidating for Ordained Ministries

A student sat in Wesley quad

In order to become a candidate for an ordained ministry you first need the support of your Circuit Superintendent. To offer for the Methodist Diaconal Order you also need to have been trained as a worship leader. To offer for presbyteral ministry you need to have been trained as a local preacher.

The first group of people whose support you need is that of the local Circuit. If they see in you the potential to become an ordained leader they will refer you to a district committee. The final stage is a connexional (national) committee who make a recommendation to the Methodist Conference.

Each candidate needs to prepare a portfolio. Information about this is available on the Methodist Church website.

If you would like help preparing your portfolio, contact us for information about our next candidates’ portfolio day.