Many colleges and universities have begun using the language of
vocation and
calling to help undergraduates think about the future direction of their lives. This language is used in both secular and religious contexts, but it has deep roots in the Christian theological tradition. Given the
increasingly multi-faith context of undergraduate life, many have asked whether this terminology can truly serve as a new vocabulary for higher education. If vocation is to find a foothold in the contemporary context, it will need to be re-examined, re-thought, and re-written; in short, higher
education will need to undertake the project of
hearing vocation differently.
In this third volume on vocation from editor David S. Cunningham, the thirteen contributing scholars identify with a wide variety of religious traditions, including Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, and Sikhism. Some contributors identify with more than one of these; others would
claim none of them. The authors met on multiple occasions to read common texts, to discuss agreements and differences, and to respond to one another's writing; some of these responses are included at the end of each chapter.
Both individually and collectively, these contributors expand the range of vocational reflection and discernment well beyond its traditional Christian origins. The authors observe that all undergraduate students--regardless of their academic field, religious background, or demographic identity-need
to make space for reflection, to overcome obstacles to discernment, and to consider the significance of their own narratives, beliefs, and practices. This, in turn, will require college campuses to re-imagine their curricular and co-curricular programming in order to support their students's
reflection on issues of meaning, purpose, and identity.
Industry Reviews
"This volume is an excellent example of what it wants to achieve...From my own neoCalvinist Reformed background, I can only underline its importance." -- Hans (J.H.F.) Schaeffer, Theological University Kampen, Journal of Reformed Theology
"Young people of all backgrounds naturally seek a deeper purpose. Our increasingly diverse communities badly need a new generation inspired by a higher calling. One of the great tasks of colleges is to nurture vocation in the young so that they may find their fulfillment in serving the broader society. This book is a wonderful companion for that journey." --Eboo Patel, Founder and President of Interfaith Youth Core and author of Interfaith Leadership: A
Primer
"In changing times, we hunger for a more spacious language. Vocation is a big word breaking out of earlier confines to hold some of the most significant features of a human life. Hearing Vocation Differently offers a contemplative conversation with worthy companions, exploring today's boundary-crossing quests for meaning and purpose. If you are a mentor open to greater wisdom, this book will meet you on the edge of your own
vocation."--Sharon Daloz Parks, author of Big Questions, Worthy Dreams: Mentoring Emerging Adults in Their Search for Meaning, Purpose, and Faith
"This book has been long overdue; but it was well worth the wait! The twelve authors were well chosen and what they wrote was on point. How much richer life will be on this planet with so many more living out their vocations faithfully."--John Haughey, S.J., author of A Biography of the Spirit
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