FAITH & CALLING
Vocations
Do you feel a calling to some sort of ministry? Do you need help in discerning what that is?
If you believe that God may be calling you to ordained or lay ministry, please contact the Director of Vocations Revd Canon Rachel Watts. Rachel works with a dedicated Vocations Team which helps with the discernment, selection, and training of ordained and licensed lay ministers.
Anyone is welcome to explore ministry in the Church, but we know that sometimes our own assumptions about what the Church might be looking for might prevent us from exploring our vocation. The Diocese of Manchester welcomes ministers, volunteers and priests from all backgrounds as we look to connect with people from the whole of society. If you would like to discuss your sense of calling or vocation or are seeking encouragement, please don’t hesitate to contact the Vocations Team.
Others may feel called to explore a different vocation, whether that be to support local projects, help at a night shelter, or a youth project in the community.
Local Stories
Finding Hope through God
Vocations Day 2025
A return to faith
Ministry Exploration Group meetings
Is God calling you?
Not quite sure which way to go?
Why not join us for the Ministry Exploration Group?
Formerly known as the Vocation Support Group, the Ministry Exploration Group brings together people from across Manchester Diocese who are currently exploring vocation, providing a space to share experiences and support one another.
Meetings run from 7pm – 9pm, and are informal and welcoming. Sometimes the group will focus on specific topics, and at other times, it will simply be a space to reflect, ask questions, and share where you are on your journey. Whether you are currently exploring or exercising some form of ministry, or are just embarking on this journey of discovery and discernment, all are welcome.
If you would like any further information or have any questions, please do not hesitate to email Bishop’s Chaplain, Revd Canon Anne Edwards at bishopschaplain@manchester.anglican.org
Details of upcoming meetings can be found here:
| Date | Venue | Speaker | Theme |
| Monday 15th September 2025 | Fabric Church M12 6HD | Bishop Mark Davies, Bishop of Middleton | Rhythms of Life to sustain and enable flourishing |
| Wed 19th November 2025 | St Wilfrid, Northenden M22 4WE | Rev Beth Bird | Training and Curacy – the inside story of life as a spouse, a parent and then a priest |
| Wed 21st January 2026 | St Matthew’s Little Lever BL3 1HH | Ven Dr John Applegate | Looking at Life Theologically |
| Mon 16th March 2026 | St Hilda’s, Audenshaw M34 5EU | Rev Canon Dr Michael Leyden | Emmanuel Theological College |
| Wed 20th May 2026 | St Stephen’s Elton BL8 2PU | Rev Canon Rachel Watts | All Things Vocation |
| Thur 9th July 2026 | St Michael’s, Tonge-cum-Alkington M24 1BT | Dr Mike Stuckey & Carole Gallagher | Lay Ministry |
Mentors
The Church of England can put you in touch with a mentor who you may find helpful if for are at any stage on the journey towards ordained vocations. A mentor is a knowledgeable friend to accompany you along the way. All the Mentors are volunteers who are passionate about supporting future clergy. Your Mentor will not be making decisions on your process or be your advocate.
For more details and to apply for a mentor, visit the Church of England’s website.
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