Huge rise in number of young people wanting to be clergy in the Church of England

Jun 15, 2017 by Jill

by Ruth Gledhill, Christian Today:

The Church of England is reporting a 14 per cent increase in numbers training for the priesthood, including a 17 per cent increase in women.

The stats have been published as 543 men and women prepare to begin training for ordination at colleges across England.

The Bishop of Guildford, Andrew Watson, said, ‘I am delighted at both the number and the range of those whom God has been calling into ordained ministry over the course of the past year.

‘Here are men and women who are choosing to put their faith on the line, so as to bring hope and spiritual nourishment to individuals and communities alike. In an increasingly uncertain world, nothing could be a greater privilege than walking alongside people in their joys and sorrows, from birth to grave.’

Catherine Nancekievill, the Church’s head of vocation, said, ‘The Church’s aim is to reflect our diversity in the priesthood and whilst we have a long way to go in achieving this, I am delighted that increasing numbers of women now feel that a life in ordained ministry is for them. This is a big step in breaking down the stereotypes, which is crucial in order to attract underrepresented groups.’

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