January 6 marks Epiphany in the Church’s calendar. The day celebrates the revealing of Jesus to the wider world as its saviour and is associated with the visit of the Magi to the newborn Jesus. To celebrate the day, Ordinands from across the Diocese and new Bishops Advisors for National Panels gathered for a service at the Cathedral.
At the Cathedral, the Ordinands were joined by the Cathedral Dean, the Very Revd Dr Mandy Ford, and Bishop Neil. Those attending reflected on the wisdom shown by the Magi and considered the wisdom needed both in discernment for the advisors and for future ministry for the ordinands. The ordinands were involved in the service by presenting the three gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh and leading the readings. The advisors were commissioned by Bishop Neil with several advisors commenting that they felt affirmed in their role and held by the church in prayer as they embarked on this ministry.
We spoke with Becca Stephens, Diocesan Adviser for Ordinands and Vocations, to ask her about ordination and what to do if you feel that God may be calling you to this ministry.
What is ordination?
Becca: “Ordination is the formal recognition of a person’s call to ministry, setting them apart for leadership and service within the Christian community. Its purpose is to affirm God’s calling, empower through the Holy Spirit, and authorize the individual to serve the church and wider community.”
How do I know if I am called to ordained ministry?
Becca: “Discerning a call to ordained ministry is a profound and often gradual process. It involves listening to God, reflecting on your own gifts, and engaging with the wider church community. It involves affirmation from others, from your church community, those who know you. It also involves an inner certainty. It is a shared discernment process as many others are involved in the process and work with you such as DDOs (Diocesan Director of Ordinands and Assistant Diocesan Director of Ordinands), Diocesan Advisers and Bishop's Advisers of National Panels.”
Are there any misunderstandings about ordination?
Becca: “Yes — ordination is often misunderstood. Common misconceptions include seeing it as purely a legal credential, a guarantee of spiritual authority, or a one‑time event rather than an ongoing vocation. In reality, ordination is a recognition of God’s call, affirmed by the church, and its purpose is both spiritual and communal.
“People also often assume ordination means the same thing everywhere. In reality, practices vary widely: as a broad generalization some traditions emphasize sacramental authority (e.g., Anglican, Catholic), while others see it as commissioning for service (e.g., Baptist, Pentecostal)”
What should I do if I feel a call to ordination?
Becca “If you feel that you might be called to ordination, contact your incumbent or associate priest for an initial conversation to explore the nudge you have been given. Have a go at some form of ministry: volunteer to do a reading, lead intercessions, help with a Bible study and even join the coffee rota."
Becca would also be delighted to hear from you at becca.stevens@bristoldiocese.org