‘Called To Serve’ vocations retreat
At Connor’s ‘Called to Serve’ vocations retreat are, from left: The Rev Peter Jones, Connor Director of Vocations; Bishop Ken Clarke, speaker; the Rt Rev George Davison, Bishop of Connor; the Rev Danielle McCullagh, Diocesan Director of Ordinands; the Rev Canon Amanda Adams, Connor Diocesan Warden of Readers; and the Rev Canon James Boyd, Connor Pioneer Ministry Advocate.
Thirty-three people from throughout Connor Diocese gathered in Bethlehem Abbey, Portglenone, on Saturday March 28 for a vocations retreat.
The theme of the day was ‘Called to Serve,’ and the retreat welcomed Bishop Ken Clarke as the speaker.
The day began with tea and coffee as the participants, from 23 different parishes, spent some time getting to know each other. This was followed by a time of worship in the conference room superbly led by James Turner.
The Rev Peter Jones, Director of Vocations with Connor Diocese, said: “Bishop Ken then led us through two sessions that focused on what it means to experience the call of God and step out in faithful service. Just before lunch, we reflected on how we can discern God’s call and Bishop Ken offered some very helpful guidance, often drawing from his own personal experience.”
Following an excellent lunch and a time of fellowship, Bishop Ken chaired a panel discussion on vocation. The Bishop of Connor, the Rt Rev George Davison; the Rev Danielle McCullagh; and the Rev Canon James Boyd then shared from their own faith journeys and offered helpful insights as to how they have heard and responded to God’s call.
Peter added: “In our final session of the day, Bishop Ken challenged us all to grow deeper in our Christian faith and recognise the importance of our personal walk with Christ.”
Bishop George concluded the gathering by thanking the Connor Vocations team for organising the retreat. He also expressed his sincere thanks to Bishop Ken for his ministry among the participants, as well as the staff of Bethlehem Abbey for their welcome and hospitality.
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