Spotlight on Vocations
As we approach Vocations Sunday on 11th May, we're talking to some of those around the diocese who are embarking on the journey. Here, we hear from Vicky Young who is a first year Ordinand based at All Saints, Worthen.
"Church and Christianity has always had a constant presence in my life, but up until a few years ago it looked and felt very different. I always followed a set routine – I attended church on a Sunday each week, would follow the service, read the bible passage and then go home, pleased I had “done church”. I also worked (and still do where I can) to support the Church in practical, and of course necessary ways as a P.C.C member and Church Warden and so felt I was more than fulfilling my duty. And indeed I was to a degree, but I then began to feel that there was more I was being called to do.
"This was further solidified when during a difficult chapter in my life, I questioned aloud “Where do I go from here God?” and I felt a hand on my shoulder that I knew was Him. He guided me through that period, still does and from that moment on I knew there was a plan for me. I work within Financial Services and so initially I wondered whether God was telling me to go into my workplace and to speak more about my faith with all who wanted to listen. I gave this a try and although it did spark some conversations, there was a nudge telling me that I had to do more.
"I distinctly remember the day that I felt a pull in a direction that I never imagined. My previous job role was as a Bank Manager and there was one particular occasion where due to a fault with one of the security alarms I became trapped in the safe! I was soon rescued but whilst I was in that enclosed space, amongst the noise and in the heat, I heard a voice cut through it all saying, “You need to be freed”. And that was that: I left that particular demanding role in lieu of one with less pressures and pursued a journey towards ordination.
"Following very encouraging conversations with the DDVO and my Vicar, I went on to complete a 1 Year Introduction to Christian Ministry Course with CGH at Ludlow which gave me an insight into how the learning was shaped. From there with a great deal of support, I was invited to Stage 1 and then Stage 2 Panels to discern my vocation further. To my delight I was accepted to begin my Ordination Path which commenced last September, again through CGH, and I continue to work alongside this.
"I cannot begin to explain how life has changed for me with God’s voice coming through stronger than ever. As well as the academic learning, there is practical too, and I remain an active presence in my Parish Church. Children’s ministry is something that I really gravitate towards, whether that is spreading the message of Easter, dressing as a Strawberry (one way of talking about the Fruits of the Spirit!) or being out in Gods beautiful creation, I will be there with a smile on my face.
"I do hope that you can be encouraged to explore your Vocation, and that it will look and feel different for us all. One thing that we can be sure of is that no matter what is ahead of us, we will become closer to God as a result and He is with us every step of the way.
"I will end with a verse from 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 which I strive to follow: Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus."
Look out for further vocations stories in the weeks to come!
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