Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Number of Ordinands

Thursday 28 October 2021 · 3 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 2 Partly answered 1 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Church of England recommended 591 people for ordained ministry training in 2020, the highest figure in 13 years.
  • Archbishop of York affirmed in July that the parish system will be revitalised for mission.
  • Jim Shannon suggested offering bursaries covering tuition fees and living expenses for older ordinands with families.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Scott Benton
Religion & Faith
Context

The Church of England aims to increase the number of ordinands by 50%. The questioner seeks updates on this initiative.

Question

What progress has the Church of England made towards increasing the number of ordinands by 50%, as previously stated?

Answer from Andrew Selous

In 2020, despite the pandemic, 591 people were recommended for training for ordained ministry—the highest figure for 13 years. Ordinations to stipendiary ministry have increased by 43% since 2013.

Answered
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Q2 Scott Benton
Religion & Faith
Context

The questioner inquires about the Church of England's dedication to maintaining parish ministries, highlighting the importance during the pandemic.

Question

What assurances can be provided that the Church of England remains committed to supporting parish ministries, especially given their critical role observed at various churches like Holy Cross in Blackpool?

Answer from Andrew Selous

I am delighted to learn of the good work of Holy Cross and other churches. The Archbishop of York affirmed in July that the parish system will be revitalised for mission. Over the past year, parishes have creatively served those suffering during the pandemic.

Answered
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Q3 Jim Shannon DUP Strangford
Religion & Faith
Context

The questioner inquires about the possibility of offering bursaries to cover both fees and living costs for older ordinands who have family obligations.

Question

Has consideration been given to offering bursaries covering not just tuition fees but also living expenses for older ordinands with families wishing to enter ministry?

Answer from Andrew Selous

I will take this suggestion back to the Church Commissioners, who will look at it seriously. The hon. Gentleman's interest in these matters is recognised.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The answer does not provide a definitive commitment or timeline for implementing bursaries covering living expenses and only indicates that the suggestion will be considered seriously.

How: Will Look At It Seriously

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