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The Diocesan Director of Ordinands and Assistant Diocesan Director of Ordinands have overall responsibility for vocations initiatives in the Diocese. There are various opportunities to explore vocation, both in the broader sense (how does God want me to express my discipleship in my working life, in the community, at church?) and in the narrower sense (specific forms of ministry within the church).
For those wanting to explore the broader sense, the Diocese organises a course entitled 'Seeking the Way', while St. John's College Nottingham Extension Studies holds weekend conferences under the title 'Fit for the Purpose'.
Conferences for those wanting to consider ordination, religious life or the work of an evangelist are organised by the Ministry Division of the Archbishop's Council, the Church Pastoral Aid Society (CPAS), Additional Curates Society (ACS), Affirming Catholicism, the Catholic Societies of the Church of England, the Society and Community of St. Francis, Church Army and various theological colleges and religious communities.
Further information can be obtained from the DDO or Assistant DDO or through the Vocations Officers (listed in the Diocesan Directory) who are also available for consultation by those who wish to explore vocation in a general sense.
Parish clergy are encouraged to help members of their congregations to think through issues of vocation and where appropriate to put them in touch with one of the Vocations Officers. Both the DDO, who is responsible for candidates who are considering stipendiary ordained or accredited lay ministry, and the Assistant DDO, who is responsible for candidates considering non-stipendiary ordained and accredited lay ministry are happy to accept invitations to preach on the subject of Vocation. The Vocations Officers may also be able to suggest suitable preachers or be available themselves. The Vocations Officers are also available to advise, encourage and support parishes and deaneries in planning vocations initiatives.
