The Diocese of Sheffield is especially keen to support those under thirty with exploring their vocation to ordination or to other ministries. We have several ways in which we support young vocations:
The Ministry Experience Scheme
This is a discipleship year to help you grow in relationship with God.
Our hope in facilitating this in the Diocese of Sheffield is that young adults will be equipped and empowered to lead others, grow in their giftings and step forward into their callings from God.
The different aspects of the year will give you opportunity for personal development, to commit to community and explore ministry. We hope this will develop your understanding of where God is leading you, as you build lasting friendships and habits.
Structure of the year
The weekly structure is 20 hours (three to four days) of placement at a church each week week, one day of theological teaching and two days off.
Placements are set up so that participants are given opportunities to work alongside experienced leaders in their chosen areas of ministry. We aim to tailor much of the year to you and your church tradition, providing you with a suitable placement church and teaching group to help you thrive. In conversation with your supervisor there is opportunity to focus on specific areas of ministry as well as being involved in a variety of the church’s activities.
We provide a structure that encourages personal prayer and group worship. Communal living in shared accommodation is a fun part of the year, with people from a variety of backgrounds and Church traditions.
There is a further opportunity within the MES to focus on kids and youth work with the Future Youth track. This will give you the chance to receive teaching specifically about youth and kids ministry, and to be part of a monthly gathering of children’s and youth workers from around the Diocese.
Making sure that you are supported throughout this year is key to you being able to grow and step out in new areas.
We as a vocations team will meet with you regularly to check in and provide feedback and pastoral care. As well as matching you with a mentor. We want to walk with you in discerning how this year can be valuable in the bigger picture of your life and calling with God.
This year is funded by the Church of England. You will have accommodation and travel to your placement covered, plus an allowance each week for food and necessities.
If you are interested in finding out more about Diocese of Sheffield’s Ministry Experience Scheme, please do get in contact with us for an informal conversation, we’d love to hear your story and share more about it!
…or to apply for the programme please fill out this application form:
Young Vocations Champions
We have two Young Vocations Champions whose role is to support young people in their calling and to help them think about some of the specific joys and challenges of entering ministry at a younger age.
