Section outline

  • A year-long journey exploring church, discipleship, vocation and mission, alongside others asking the same question. It is for people wanting to explore a ministry leadership role, or to grow in confidence living out their faith in their church, community and work. It replaces Called to Serve, drawing on a model developed by the Diocese of Chester.

    Delivered by
    Diocese of Carlisle
    Level
    Level 3 (proposed)
    Format
    Year-long: evenings plus two Saturdays
    Begins
    3 October 2026
    Cost
    Possible small charge for the two day sessions

    Who it is for

    Anyone who wants to become better equipped to serve God in the world and in the church, with a particular focus on leadership roles. Also for those beginning to explore authorised, licensed or ordained ministry, though it is not a requirement for them, so no one is held up in the process.

    How it runs

    An introductory day led by Bishop Michael, then four units of four evening sessions, then a concluding celebration day. It is not academic: sessions are interactive, with small group discussion alongside teaching, built on collaborative case-based learning. Each unit includes a project to put the learning into practice, such as a newsletter article, a video, a church display, a website piece or an event. Course content is supported online through this learning platform.

    Where and when

    The first course runs at Carlisle from October 2026, then on an annual rolling cycle around the archdeaconries, with an online option. Evening sessions run 7.00pm to 9.00pm; the opening and closing days are Saturdays. There may be a small charge for the two day sessions to cover costs, but all are welcome whether they can pay or not.

    What is in it

    Introductory day Connections
    with Bishop Michael
    Saturday 3 October 2026
    01 Living together
    the church
    15, 22 and 29 October, 5 November 2026
    • What is the church for?
    • Being the Church
    • In earth as in heaven
    • The Church of England
    • Being the Church differently: a healthier church culture
    02 Living for Jesus
    discipleship
    19 and 26 November, 3 and 10 December 2026
    • What is a disciple? Everyday faith and baptism
    • Bible and prayer; finding your way
    • A rule of life; you and the church
    • Faith and action
    03 Living to serve
    vocation
    14, 21 and 28 January, 4 February 2027
    • The what and why of ministry
    • Better together
    • Gifts, and unwrapping them
    • Growing and sustaining ministry
    04 Living in the world
    mission
    22 and 29 April, 13 and 20 May 2027
    • Mission matters
    • Church growth
    • Applying our faith
    • Sharing our faith
    Concluding day Reflection and Celebration
    with Bishop Michael
    22 May or 12 June 2027, to be confirmed
    Still to confirm

    Dates are as published by the diocese and marked there as proposed and subject to confirmation.