01
Living together
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
A new course from the Diocese of Carlisle
What am I called to?
A year-long journey exploring church, discipleship, vocation and mission — alongside others asking the same question.
Register your interest
Begins 3 October 2026
Living Your Call is a course 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.
Who is it 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.
It's also for those beginning to explore authorised, licensed or ordained ministry — though it isn't a requirement for them, so no one is held up in the process.
Is it academic?
No. Sessions are interactive — small-group discussion alongside teaching. Each unit includes a small (or large!) project to put learning into practice: a newsletter article, a video, a church display, a website piece or an event.
What will it cost?
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's in it?
An introductory day led by Bishop Michael, then four units of four evening sessions, and a concluding celebration day.
02
Living for Jesus
Discipleship
- What is a disciple? Everyday faith & baptism
- Bible and prayer; finding your way
- A rule of life; you and the church
- Faith and action
03
Living to serve
Vocation
- The what and why of ministry
- Better together
- Gifts, and unwrapping them
- Growing and sustaining ministry
04
Living in the world
Mission
- Mission matters
- Church growth
- Applying our faith
- Sharing our faith
When is it?
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 7.00–9.00pm; the opening and closing days are Saturdays. Dates below are proposed and subject to confirmation.
Introductory day
Connections
Saturday 3 October 2026
Living together
Theme 1 · the church
15, 22 & 29 October, 5 November 2026
Living for Jesus
Theme 2 · discipleship
19 & 26 November, 3 & 10 December 2026
Living to serve
Theme 3 · vocation
14, 21 & 28 January, 4 February 2027
Living in the world
Theme 4 · mission
22 & 29 April, 13 & 20 May 2027
Concluding day
Reflection & Celebration
22 May / 12 June 2027 (to be confirmed)
How does it work?
The course goes beyond learning facts or skills — it equips people for leadership through collaborative, case-based learning. It draws on experiential and transformative learning, using preparation and experience-based small-group discussion alongside presentations. Course content is supported online through the diocese's new learning platform.
Interested? We'd love to hear from you.
Register your interest and we'll be in touch with full details, dates and how to book.
calling@carlislediocese.org.uk