Vocations Sunday is on Sunday, May 11, and the diocese is warmly commending resources from the Church of England to help churches mark the day.
The Revd Canon Sean Robertshaw, Diocesan Director of Vocations, said: “The Fourth Sunday of Easter is known as Vocations Sunday or Good Shepherd Sunday and is marked as the World Day of Prayer for Vocations.
“The purpose of this day is to fulfil Jesus' instruction to “Pray the Lord of the harvest to send labourers into his harvest” (Matthew Chapter 9 verse 38).
“The Collect for the Fourth Sunday of Easter says: ‘Faithful Shepherd of your Father’s sheep: teach us to hear your voice and to follow your command.’”
“While appreciating all vocations both lay and ordained, the Church concentrates attention on raising up shepherds for God's people, whilst encouraging all who are discerning their vocation to pray that they may hear and respond to God's call upon their lives.”
The Church of England believes all are called to serve God according to their given gifts, talents and context.
Every Christian has a vocation, and it is the task of all those serving in ministry to help identify and nurture the gifts and callings of every member of the Church.
Please click here to find a resources page on the Church of England website, which hosts a variety of links to resources and services, including further information about vocations to both lay and ordained ministries.