Called or Collared? - An Alternative Approach to Vocation, New Edition

by Francis Dewar

'Our notion of calling or vocation has become very narrow, and is often taken only to mean the calling to be an ordained minister. I want to rescue the idea from all those assumptions because I believe that God calls every human being to some particular self-giving task at each stage of their life'. Francis Dewar. Written for all lay people, including those considering ordination, this new edition, which takes into account changes since the ordination of women to the priesthood, is itself a call for everyone to discover their unique journey.

Genres: Theology, Religion

129 pages, Paperback

First published July 25, 1991

Reviews

[Eve · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best book I have read about vocations! I have been reading much more vocation-related material recently, and much of it I have felt utterly alienated from and turned-off by (largely due to the hint of arrogance running through much of the material, however veiled in humble language the authors imagine them to be..). This one was different. I deeply appreciate the way he separates personal vocation from role vocation. I have realised that most of my confusion has arisen from these two being merged by so many people who discuss vocation to ordained ministry. I also now feel much calmer about having both kinds of vocation developing in my life somewhat separately from each other - something which I now see the merits of, where before I just saw stress and the urge to contort. Thanks so much for this book, Francis!

[Michaela · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good book. I think it is really written to put you off getting ordained - or at the least to help you make sure that is really what God is calling you to do. What I loved about the book was that we each have a song to sing. A lovely friend of mine recently preached the most beautiful sermon I have ever heard on Mary's song, that contained that message and so it reminded me of this too. And also, the affirmation that where the worlds deepest needs meet our deepest joy is where we will find our vocation. We all need to hear that message. The chapter on the characteristics needed for a successful priest is brilliant. I found it a useful book to read.

[Fubzi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found it really clear and thoughtfully written. The writer draws upon both his experience and the experience of others in order to produce a book that I found very helpful. I particularly liked how it didn't try to push the reader in any direction but tried to expand the understanding of calling beyond the small box of church work and ordained ministry. I would recommend it to any Christian trying to decide on a career.

[Sophie Jessup · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this book difficult to read at the start as it made me feel like he was trying to dissuade me from ordination. I really enjoyed the exercises though and also hearing the stories of those who were on the pathway for ordination before realising it wasn't right for them. It was these stories that stoked the fires within me for my own journey and I know now with more clarity and certainty where I am headed.

[Andy Todd · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thinking of ordained ministry? Or any other ministry? Or trying to make sense of your sense of calling? This is a readable and thought-provoking short text. For those considering ordination, I would make it a "must read".

[Charity · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very helpful exploration of "calling" for a Christian, not only in terms of ordained ministry.

[BookBully · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very helpful. A solid 4.5 stars.