Hannah Felsbourg
2 November 2024
The Anglican diocese of Melbourne is seeing a steady resurgence in the number of people exploring vocations to ordained ministry, marking a return to pre-COVID levels.
The increase signals a shift after years of decline in ordinations nationally and globally following the COVID pandemic.
The diocese expects this trend to translate into higher ordination numbers over the next 18 months.
Bishop Kate Prowd said nearly 40 people were currently participating in discernment programs despite the challenges brought on by the pandemic.
She said anecdotally numbers had been lower nationwide since COVID, with fewer aspirants completing theological studies, creating a delayed impact on ordinations.
The return to face-to-face vocational programs helped candidates engage more fully in the discernment process.
Bishop Prowd said in-person sessions were fostering community connections in a way that online programs could not.
Read more: ‘Gift to belong to something bigger’: Journey to priesthood
She said the diversity of those considering ordination reflected the diocese’s community, with candidates coming from a range of cultural and church traditions.
The diocese tried to offered candidates Supervised Theological Field Education placements that would provide a comprehensive perspective on its traditions.
Bishop Prowd said the diocese was also introducing new initiatives to support this growth in vocations.
She said Vocations Sunday, held on August 25, was established to invite parishioners to consider if God was calling them to ministry.
Future vocation days may be broadened to include anyone interested in learning about vocation, both lay and ordained.
Bishop Prowd said the diocese is committed to preparing future clergy to preach the word and administer sacraments confidently.
She said it was essential to provide a rigorous formation process that enabled candidates to feel ready and supported in their roles.
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