In the last couple of years in the Church of England the number of women offering for ordained ministry has been about the same as that of men. Perhaps this was partly encouraged by seeing women becoming Bishops, something only permitted seven years ago, that now both women and men are being considered equally. I was the fifth female bishop in the Church of England but now we have five out of 42 female Diocesan Bishops, four Acting Diocesans (of which I am one) and 21 suffragan or assistant bishops.
However, despite the increase in female clergy there still effectively remains a disparity in terms of their status. There are fewer women who are paid for their ministry rather than undertaking it voluntarily. Fewer who have additional responsibilities such as deanery leadership or who train other priests. And yet as I look at some of our female ministers both clergy and lay leaders, I see talented, intelligent, energetic, innovative, courageous, deeply prayerful, and fabulous women! Through their stepping into new territory, breaking glass ceilings, and willingness to engage with challenge and conflict, I have hope for the future!
Bishop Ruth