We are continuing the series of stories celebrating our soon-to-be Reverends from our Caleb Stream as we head towards their ordination next Sunday. Today's story comes from Jan Durrant.
How was Jan called?
I grew up in a family where my mum was a Christian and I used to accompany her to church. As a teenager, I decided to find out what 'it' was all about and so decided to read the Bible cover to cover. It took 3 years reading it daily, and by the end, I gave my life to Christ and started my day reading God's word and praying. I do this to this day. I found two Christian teachers and the Christian Union so helpful in helping me to grow in faith. These foundations have been the bedrock of my faith.
I felt a calling to work for God several years ago when I was a teacher. The feeling grew and grew, until one day, while I was praying, an advert was sent to me by accident for the post of Administrator for the Parish of Wonersh and Blackheath. I spoke to David, the incumbent, about ‘working for God’ and, to cut a long story short, started working for the Parish.
The calling grew and grew, so with help from David, I explored it. I felt drawn to ordained ministry, but I was too old! Within a few months, the Diocese of Guildford were looking for candidates for a new Caleb stream they were starting, and I applied. I have to say, the last year on Caleb has been extraordinary. With the help of Bishop Peter, Delia and John (who run the course), my faith journey has travelled a path of pure wonder and formation.
I would say to anyone wanting to explore their vocational journey, speak up! Talk and pray, the journey is so exciting.
My favourite verse, Isaiah 40:31, saw me through a very difficult period after a car accident which left me unable to walk for a while. Whenever I feel overwhelmed, God brings this verse to me, either through someone speaking, reading it randomly or watching the Red Kites soaring in the sky.
And it’s amazing, when I wondered if I really felt too old to take on service for God, the verse before this was brought to me: ‘Even youths grow tired and weary and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.’ (Isaiah 40. 30) And so I trust in my Lord for my ministry, knowing that wherever He leads me, He will renew me!
But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength; they will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they shall walk and not be faint.
- Isaiah 40:31