-vocation-

n. [ L. vocatio a bidding, invitation, fr. vocare to call, fr. vox, vocis, voice: cf. F. vocation. See Vocal. ] 1. A call; a summons; a citation; especially, a designation or appointment to a particular state, business, or profession. [ 1913 Webster ]

What can be urged for them who not having the vocation of poverty to scribble, out of mere wantonness make themselves ridiculous? Dryden. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. Destined or appropriate employment; calling; occupation; trade; business; profession. [ 1913 Webster ]

He would think his service greatly rewarded, if he might obtain by that means to live in the sight of his prince, and yet practice his own chosen vocation. Sir. P. Sidney. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. (Theol.) A calling by the will of God. Specifically: -- [ 1913 Webster ]

(a) The bestowment of God's distinguishing grace upon a person or nation, by which that person or nation is put in the way of salvation; as, the vocation of the Jews under the old dispensation, and of the Gentiles under the gospel. “The golden chain of vocation, election, and justification.” Jer. Taylor. [ 1913 Webster ]

(b) A call to special religious work, as to the ministry. [ 1913 Webster ]

Every member of the same [ the Church ], in his vocation and ministry. Bk. of Com. Prayer. [ 1913 Webster ]