What is an Orthodox Vocation?

In Orthodox spirituality, the concept of vocation, or calling, holds deep significance and encompasses a wide range of meanings:

1. Living Out One’s Baptismal Calling: In the broadest sense, every Orthodox Christian is called to live out their baptismal calling. This means living a life in Christ, participating in the life of the Church, growing in holiness, and striving for theosis (deification).

2. Personal Vocation: Each individual is seen as having a unique vocation. This is not limited to one’s job or career but encompasses one’s entire life and how it is lived in response to God’s call. It involves discovering and using one’s talents and gifts in a way that glorifies God and serves others.

3. Vocation to Holiness: A central aspect of vocation in Orthodox spirituality is the universal call to holiness. Every Christian, regardless of their state in life, is called to seek and grow in holiness.

4. Monastic and Clerical Vocations: While all Christians are called to holiness, some are called to specific vocations such as monastic life or the priesthood. These vocations are seen as particular ways of living out the Christian life more intensely and in a focused manner.

5. Vocation as a Dynamic Process: Vocation is often understood as a dynamic and lifelong process, not just a one-time decision. It involves an ongoing discernment of God’s will, a responsiveness to the Holy Spirit, and a willingness to grow and change.

6. Integration of Faith and Daily Life: In Orthodoxy, there’s an emphasis on integrating one’s faith into every aspect of life. Whether one is a teacher, a doctor, a parent, or a businessperson, each role is seen as a means to live out one’s faith and serve others.

7. Community Aspect: Vocation is also understood in a communal context. It’s about contributing to the life of the Church and society, building up the body of Christ, and participating in the mission of the Church.

8. Service to Others: A key component of vocation in Orthodox spirituality is service to others. Regardless of one’s specific calling, serving others in love and humility is central.

9. Eschatological Dimension: Finally, vocation has an eschatological dimension, meaning it is related to the Christian’s ultimate destiny. It’s about preparing oneself and others for the Kingdom of God.

In summary, vocation in Orthodox spirituality is about much more than career choices. It’s about how one responds to God’s call in all aspects of life, living out one’s faith in the context of the community, serving others, and growing towards holiness.