Following Jesus

Discipleship

A lifelong journey of discovering Christ, responding in faith, belonging to his Church and sharing his love in the world.

Find somewhere to begin

What is discipleship?

Learning to follow Christ

To be a Christian is to be a disciple of Jesus: someone who hears his call and chooses to follow him. Discipleship is not a course we complete, but an identity that shapes the whole of life.

Through Baptism and the sacramental life of the Church, through prayer, Scripture, worship, friendship and service, Christ draws us into a deeper relationship with God and with one another. We do not need to have every answer before we begin.

A pattern for Christian life

Four movements of discipleship

These are not separate stages to finish in order. Each belongs to the continuing rhythm of a life lived with Christ.

An open Bible illuminated by golden light, with an oil lamp, a path and a cross

Discovery

Discovering how God’s story transforms our story through the continuing exploration of Scripture, holy relationships and the living tradition of the Church.

“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.” — Acts 2:42

Hands joined in prayer before a candlelit altar and cross

Responding

Placing ourselves in God’s presence and deepening our relationship with him through worship, prayer and the spiritual practices of the Christian life.

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.” — Matthew 22:37

People sharing bread beside a lamp and cross at a welcoming church doorway

Connecting

Connecting people with Jesus and with one another by extending hospitality, sharing faith and growing together as a community centred upon Christ.

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations… And remember, I am with you always.” — Matthew 28:19–20

Compassionate hands offering bread and a warm garment near a church

Action

Doing God’s work in the world by the power of the Holy Spirit through service, generosity, mercy, justice and loving outreach to our neighbours.

“Do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with your God.” — Micah 6:8

Explore at your own pace

Where do I start?

You do not need to read everything or begin in a particular place. Choose the subject that speaks to you now, and return whenever you are ready for another step.

A good place to begin

These short introductions offer six accessible ways into Christian faith, Scripture and worship. Read them in any order.

A Lifelong Journey Being a Christian Reading the Bible The Creeds and Christian belief The Deacon at Mass What the priest wears at Mass

Explore Christian belief

Prayer and spiritual life

Scripture

Sacraments and worship

Catechesis

Christian living

A life taking shape

Twelve marks of discipleship

Christian disciples are always growing. These marks help us recognise the life Christ is forming within us.

CalledGod acts first and invites us to follow.

ResponsiveWe freely say yes to Christ’s call.

LovingLove of God and neighbour marks our lives.

FruitfulFaith bears visible fruit for God’s glory.

ObedientWe seek and follow the will of Christ.

TeachableWe remain lifelong learners in faith.

FollowingWe learn to live and love as Jesus did.

Heaven-mindedWe keep God’s eternal promise before us.

Cross-bearingWe follow faithfully through cost and difficulty.

PrayerfulWe spend time with Jesus in prayer.

ServingFaith turns us outward in love and service.

Disciple-makingWe help others encounter and follow Christ.

“If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” — Matthew 16:24

Would it help to speak with someone?

If you would like guidance about where to begin, have questions about the Christian faith or would value a conversation about prayer and spiritual direction, please contact the parish. We would be glad to help.

Contact the Parish Office