Is God Calling You to Ministry?
A call to ministry often begins with questions, a nudge toward deeper service, leadership, or witness in the church. You may sense God inviting you to serve in new ways, even if the path ahead is not yet clear.
Discerning a call is not about having all the answers. It is about listening for how God may be shaping your life for the sake of the gospel.
Ministry Begins with Jesus
In The United Methodist Church, all Christians share a primary call: to follow Jesus Christ, love God, and love your neighbor.
From that shared discipleship, some are called to lead, preach, teach, shepherd, and help communities of faith live out God’s mission in the world. Licensed and ordained ministry grows out of a life rooted in prayer, Scripture, service, and community.
Discernment Happens in Community
Calling is not discerned alone. The church plays a central role in helping individuals listen, reflect, and respond to their sense of call.
Discernment includes:
- Prayer and Scripture
- Conversation with pastors, mentors, and peers
- Attention to gifts, experiences, and God’s movement over time
Through these practices, clarity emerges step by step.
Learn more about our vocational discernment resources, programs, experiences and network here.
Exploring Paths of Ministry
The United Methodist Church recognizes multiple expressions of ministry, including:
- Licensed Local Pastor
- Ordained Deacon
- Ordained Elder
- Lay Service
Exploring these paths helps you understand how your gifts and passions may align with the needs of the church and the world.
Take the Next Faithful Step
Exploration 2026 provides a supportive environment for those who are questioning or considering a call to ministry in The United Methodist Church.
Join us to reflect, learn, and listen alongside others on a similar journey — without pressure to decide, and with trust that discernment takes time.
