More than 150 people from all corners of the diocese attended the Rural Forum in Bagley. This year’s Forum considered “Where do I fit?” and was a day to look at our calling in the countryside. It was an opportunity to share stories, as well as the challenges, frustrations and joys and a chance to meet with others from different parts of the diocese.
Matthew Frakum, Vocations Team Leader, was one of the day’s keynote speakers. He reflected on the different types of calling. He said, “I truly believe that every single person here has a unique and wonderful call that God has for them……”
He went on to say, “I want to tell you that God does have a calling, and therefore a vocation specifically for you, which is just as important as any of those individual callings to be a missionary or a leader or a priest.”
Bishop Michael, spoke to those gathered about prayer. He encouraged, “I think the first thing we have to get over when we think about prayer, is, ‘Oh, I should be doing it better’, and to accept that there is always something about which there is more to be learnt, where our efforts are going to be imperfect ……
“I think we have to approach prayer as the disciples did in Luke 11. Lord, teach us to pray.”
Attendees also heard from a wide variety of people in different rural settings about their calling and how that had led them into different roles within the Church.
After lunch there was there was the opportunity to join a number of discussion groups; including leading worship, pastoral care, praying for my community and starting something new.
Rob Walrond, Rural Adviser for Bath and Wells reflected on the day, “It was inspiring - full of honest conversations and deep reflection. It was great to see so many people from across our diocese coming together to share ideas, pray and reflect on calling in the countryside.
“We left renewed in our sense of purpose and grateful for the encouragement we found in one another.”
More videos from the day can be found on the diocesan YouTube channel.