Design for Life: 'Everyone is called'

Territorial Candidates Directors Majors Andrea and Mark Sawyer, who started their new appointment in July, introduce themselves and September’s Design for Life weekend.

What is Design for Life?

It is a weekend retreat for all those who are giving opportunity, time and space to seek God’s will and purpose for their lives together with others.

Everyone is called by God to be salt and light in the world, and that world is different for each person. Some people are called to be barristers, plumbers, homemakers or factory workers, other people find their vocation in schools or hospitals and others serve as ministers or Salvation Army officers.

The Candidates Unit exists to help people explore and discern what God is calling them to do and be, which is why Design for Life (DFL) was started many years ago.

It’s a wonderful experience! We share in worship, teaching, group discussion, fellowship and great conversation.

Who is it for?

DFL is for anyone over 18 seeking God’s design for their life.

No one form of ministry, vocation or service is promoted. Whether you’re near the beginning of your journey and want to scan the horizon or you’ve been travelling a certain route and want to stop and reflect, DFL is for you.

When is the next weekend?

The next retreat starts on Friday 16 September and ends on Sunday 18 September at William Booth College in London. The cost is £80 per person.

What’s the timetable for the weekend?

Registration starts from 6pm on Friday, ahead of an evening meal at 7pm and the first session at 8pm. The weekend will end by 3pm on Sunday.

How are you finding your new roles?

We have been in our new appointments as Territorial Candidates Directors for just over a month now and we are getting settled living and working at William Booth College and being part of that community. 

We are excited about our new roles and we are passionate about wanting to inspire, encourage and challenge others about vocation, ministry and leadership in these important, significant days.

Has Covid-19 impacted people’s perspectives about vocation?

Since the pandemic many people are asking questions about spirituality, life and faith and with that come questions about the future: What am I doing with my life? What am I doing on Earth? What on earth am I doing? Where am I going? Is there something different for me to explore?

What would you say to someone considering DFL?

Have a think and pray. If it feels right, then go for it!

There are limited spaces and the deadline for applications is 2 September, so we encourage you to book your place now!

For more information, you can contact us via email at vocation@salvationarmy.org.uk.