More young people are training to become priests

The Church of England is making significant progress towards its goal of recruiting more candidates for ordained ministry.

Since 2016, the number of people aged under 32 recommended for training for ordination has increased by nearly a third, from 128 to 169. This means almost one in three of those entering training for the priesthood this year are expected to be under 32 years old.

Since last year, the overall number of people recommended for ordination training has increased by 7%, with 580 compared to 541. This follows a 14% increase during 2016, putting the church on course to achieving a key target of recruiting 50% more candidates for ordination by 2020.

Meanwhile the vocations report shows that women are set to be the majority entering ordination training for the second year running, with 54% of this year’s recommended candidates being female.

The Rt Revd Karen Gorham, Bishop of Sherborne, said: "It’s really encouraging whenever I hear of young people who feel called by God to serve the church.

"Our own diocesan ministry experience scheme, giving young people the chance to experience the local church first hand, has been successful in prompting individuals to test their vocation to the priesthood.

"We also have young men and women serving as training curates in rural and urban settings in Dorset and Wiltshire, whose enthusiasm is rubbing off on those they meet, bringing new ideas and energy to the local church.

"A church whose leadership is made up of all ages healthily reflects the local communities we seek to serve. There is much to celebrate here and across the Church of England."