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Written question asked by Andrew Rosindell (Reform UK) on Tuesday, 8 September 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 10 September 2026. A holding answer was provided on Thursday, 17 September 2026. A substantive answer was provided by Marsha De Cordova (Labour) on Wednesday, 14 October 2026 on behalf of the Church Commissioners.

Clergy: Recruitment

Question

To ask the hon. Member for Battersea, representing the Church Commissioners, what steps the Church of England is taking to increase the number of full-time stipendiary priests.

Answer

The Ministry Development Board, chaired by the Lord Bishop of Chester, has launched a national programme, 'Called: What is your part in Gods Story', with targeted resources made available across the Church.

There has been a significant rise in candidates for ordinantion for each of the last two years, with numbers of ordinations up by 34% this last Petertide (June). There is a general focus on all forms of ordained ministry, including fulltime, stipendiary vocations to the priesthood.

An improved maintenance package for fulltime ordinands is begining this year, representing a significant additional investment in ordinand wellbeing. There have also been significant recent investments in clergy wellbeing, including increases to the stipend and pension entitlements.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
27882
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Clergy Recruitment
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk