About

Christian Vocational Discernment offers independent, structured vocational discernment for individuals exploring Christian life, ministry, and service.

This work exists to assist those who seek clarity before presenting themselves to churches, dioceses, denominations, or communities for formal discernment. It is particularly intended for individuals who want their sense of calling tested honestly and soberly, rather than affirmed prematurely.

The nature of this work

Vocational discernment is not a matter of desire alone. Nor is it resolved by enthusiasm, sincerity, or personal conviction. Christian vocation is ordered toward service under authority and requires maturity, stability, obedience, and the capacity to bear responsibility over time.

My role is to offer clear, structured, and independent counsel at an early stage — helping individuals assess whether a vocational path should be pursued, deferred, or set aside. This includes attention to formation readiness, personal history, temperament, resilience, and the realistic demands of long-term Christian service.

I do not place candidates, promise outcomes, or replace ecclesial authority. I do not act on behalf of any diocese, denomination, or institution. My work is advisory only.

Experience and approach

This work draws on many years of experience in Christian leadership, formation, and ecclesial governance, including responsibility for assessing suitability and readiness for long-term service within the Church. I have worked with individuals at different stages of life, including older candidates, converts, and those who have previously been discouraged, redirected, or unsettled by institutional discernment processes.

I am frequently asked to advise individuals not to proceed toward formal ministry, or to delay doing so, where this best serves both the individual and the Church. I regard this as a serious pastoral responsibility and do not undertake it lightly.

My approach is intentionally non-therapeutic and non-promotional. It is grounded in a classical Christian understanding of vocation as costly, formative, and ordered toward service rather than self-expression. Discernment, as I understand it, does not remove mystery; it removes confusion, enabling individuals to proceed — or refrain — with integrity and freedom.

Independence and boundaries

This advisory work is offered independently and in a personal capacity. It is not affiliated with, nor does it represent, any church body, denomination, or institution.

Where appropriate, I encourage individuals to seek spiritual direction, pastoral counsel, or professional support alongside vocational discernment. Safeguarding, confidentiality, and clear ethical boundaries are integral to this work.