The 13 men and 13 women were ordained at Winchester Cathedral. As well as being the largest intake of new clergy, it is also the most women to be ordained in a single year this century. The ordinands come from a variety of backgrounds, bringing with them a breadth of unique experiences. Between them, they have worked in a wide range of sectors, including journalism, the third sector and education. They have now responded to God’s call to serve their local communities as Christian leaders. Jemima Lewis, 37, is going on to serve the Kings Worthy and Headbourne Worthy parishes. She said: “Listening to people and being present with them helps us to discern what God is doing, not just within their lives, but the community, and throughout our generation. Being ordained means hearing those calls and being an influencer for change.