Being called is fundamental to any understanding of discipleship. If we look at the church as a community of disciples, then we need to consider how we are called and what a call may require of us. In terms of ministry and discipleship a call is something that God initiates, something God does. We often ask questions such as "What is God calling you to?". If you look at the Bible for examples of call, we learn four things. God's call reflects in some ways a choice on God's part.

Those called are not called because of any merit on their part, but because God graciously calls. God calls groups the nation of Israel or the church and individuals such as the prophets or the apostles but they are not called to privilege but to service. Call revolves primarily around hearing and responding to God's message and how that is worked out and acknowledged in community. For most of us, that will be the Church. Responding to call is of major importance and should not be minimized.

God calls and we work out our vocation that's something we might do as a result of hearing and responding to God's call. We listen to God and we work out our vocation through a process called discernment. That often means we talk with our friends and colleagues to work out what that call might require of us. So following discussion at Assembly Executive in 2023 Children's and Youth Work, Education and Learning, and Ministries have been working together in this the first of a series of conversation starters about call and vocation for everyone.

We want it to be a resource for local churches and we hope it will stimulate discussion and conversation. After all, it's good to talk