Discerning God in the Process: An Empirical and Theological Analysis of Vocational Discernment towards Ordained Ministry in the Church of England

Abstract

From its earliest days, the Church has carefully discerned those called to roles of public leadership and responsibility. This thesis offers a theological analysis of the Shared Discernment Process (SDP) used by the Church of England to discern vocations to ordained ministry. Introduced in 2021, the SDP was a significant revision of previous processes, designed to reflect contemporary changes in ministry and promote greater diversity among candidates.

Through empirical research with Diocesan Directors of Ordinands (DDOs) and candidates, this study examines how the SDP is experienced as a means of discerning God’s call, rather than merely a pragmatic selection process. I analyse the theology of the vocational discernment process and engage with three key themes.

First, I explore the role of personal narrative in discernment, drawing on Stanley Hauerwas’s narrative theology to argue that storytelling should move beyond psychological theories of storied personal identity and emphasise the church community’s role in discerning vocation. Second, I examine how candidates articulate their calling in formal interviews, engaging with Wesley Vander Lugt’s theatrical theology to reflect on authenticity and formation in these moments of performance. Third, I address the asymmetrical power dynamics involved in these encounters, using a recent blog post by Mike Higton on power in the Church of England to highlight the need for accountability and transparency in ecclesial discernment processes.

As one of the first practical theological studies on the SDP, this thesis offers a unique contribution by analysing the lived experiences of those engaging in this process. Theologically, it advances contemporary discussion on vocation and ecclesiology. Practically, it proposes recommendations for improving the work of DDOs and others involved in vocational discernment. These insights will be valuable for theologians, church leaders, DDOs, and candidates exploring a call to ordained ministry.