OCTOBER, 2013 BULLETIN- ‘PHOENIX’

In Rotary, we celebrate October as a ‘Vocational Service Month’. Have we ever broached our head to think  what is vocational service? If we  are an active, engaged Rotarian, we  probably view vocational service as a way of life, even if we  find it difficult to articulate a clear definition. I happen to go through a document published by Rotary International which very vividly elucidates  the concept of vocational service. I wish to share the relevant excerpts for the benefit of my fellow Rotarians:-

“The Object of Rotary is a philosophical statement of Rotary’s purpose and the responsibilities

of  Rotarians. The concept of vocational service is rooted in the Second Object, which calls on

Rotarians to ‘encourage and foster’:-

1.  High ethical standards in business and professions.

2.  The recognition of the worthiness of all useful occupations.

3.  The dignifying of each Rotarian’s occupation as an opportunity to serve society.

As a Rotarian, how can you put these ideals into action? Consider these suggestions:-

      1.      Talk about your vocation in your club, and take time to learn about fellow members’ vocations.

      2.      Use your professional skills to serve a community.
3.    Practice your profession with integrity, and inspire others to behave ethically through your own words and actions.

     4.      Help a young person achieve his or her career aspirations.

     5.      Guide and encourage others in their professional development.

If you do any of these things, you are performing vocational service. And if vocational service motivates and energizes you, then you’re in the right place, because vocational service is the very essence of Rotary. It is what sets Rotary apart from other service organizations.”