A total of 564 men and women were recommended to train as future clergy in the Church of England in 2004; the highest number in six years. The figure represents an increase of more than 10 percent over the 505 recommended in 2003. It has only twice been exceeded in the last 20 years: in 1986 and 1998. The recommendations include 284 men and 280 women.

There were 51 selection conferences last year, attended by 727 candidates testing their vocations. This year is expected to see 52 selection conferences with more than 740 candidates.

"God still calls, people respond, and the Church rejoices - it's very encouraging," said Ven Dr Gordon Kuhrt, Director of Ministry.

The increase in 2004 was among candidates in the 50 plus age bracket, where recommendations rose from 150 in 2003 to 210. The Ministry Division is responding to this trend through a young vocations initiative. The initiative will include teams of clergy and ordinands in their 20s giving presentations in parishes or Higher and Further Education chaplaincies, taking stalls at university careers fairs, and encouraging incumbents and chaplains to actively recruit.

"Attracting young people to ordained ministry is key for the Church's present and future mission and ministry," said the Rt Rev John Gladwin, Bishop of Chelmsford, who chairs the Ministry Division. "What young people may sometimes lack in terms of experience they more than make up for in terms of energy and potential."