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 year for growing in relationship with God as you explore ministry and commit to community and personal development.
Our hope in facilitating this in 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. It is a year for spiritual growth, and one’s personal habits are a key and integral part of that. We will provide a structure that encourages daily devotions and group worship. Communal living in shared accommodation will be a really fun part of the year.
Placements are set up so that candidates are given opportunities to work alongside experienced leaders in their chosen areas of ministry.
Receiving regular feedback from a supervisor. You will be in a place to learn from them and be empowered, growing the skills to lead yourselves.
Theological teaching is provided considering the tradition and academic interest of each candidate. Some may want to choose specific modules of which a variety are also available.
Structure of the year
We want this to be a well-rounded year for you where you feel enriched spiritually through personal and corporate worship and prayer time, emotionally through healthy and intentional community, and physically through good habits of rest, work and healthy living.
The weekly structure is 20 hours (three days) of placement a week, one day of teaching, a study day and one day off.
There will be protected time for you to have with the house Warden each week to receive some input, and just for social time together. Gaining experience of church ministry will most likely mean working on Sunday in your placement church. Attending meetings with the staff teams, helping to run events and community projects.
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.
If this sounds like it could be for you, or you want to know more…
…or to apply for September 2025’s 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.
