FAQs

Vocation is the heart of the Christian life. We believe people are created for relationship with God who calls to us all life long and invites our creative response.

We believe that rediscovering vocation—as both the general calling to discipleship shared by Christians and our particular callings (to people, places, and work)—can help revitalize the local church for its mission in the world.

We’re eager to deepen our theological work on calling (and discover new directions) alongside our partner congregations in the Communities of Calling Initiative.

We believe that congregations can be re-energized by the creative challenges of exploring God’s call together. We want to help you discern how your congregation fits into God’s mission in the world.

“Congregations are the best places for God’s people to be inspired and equipped to live out their callings each day.” (Jack Fortin, The Centered Life)

Applications were due July 1, 2018. If you have missed the application deadline, we encourage you to join our virtual network of congregations interested in exploring vocation in their communities. Subscribe to our Call & Respond e-newsletter for more information and free resources.

Each congregation selected for admission into the Communities of Calling Initiative is expected to:

  • commit to participate in the full 5-year program
  • form a congregational team (1 pastor, 1 staff person, and 1 lay leader) who can lead local planning efforts and attend a yearly meeting in Collegeville
  • participate in online activities between meetings, including live webinars
  • plan a local project on vocation (either a new initiative or building on existing ministries)
  • create a grant proposal for up to $30,000 to help pay for eligible project expenses
  • evaluate their efforts and write an annual program report

Grants of up to $30,000 will be offered to congregations who successfully complete all program requirements.

Travel and lodging expenses for meetings in Collegeville will covered for each congregational team (pastor, staff member, and lay leader).

For the 2021 summer pilgrimage to Israel, 50% of ground travel costs will be covered for up to 28 interested participants, who will be responsible for remaining costs and air travel arrangements.

Our gatherings will offer time and space for personal reflection, including the option for teams to add an extra day for their own retreat.

Participants will explore Saint John’s Abbey, The Saint John’s Bible, the Pottery Studio, and Collegeville’s beautiful lakes and woods.

Stay tuned for more books, videos, and online resources on calling for ministry in different contexts—including congregations, campus ministry, chaplaincy, and classroom use. For now, check out our Resources section to get started.

Call & Respond—Your Vocation Tool Kit!

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