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Pronounced "Pulse" as in, the Church Should Get One (they said it, not me). Fewer and fewer young people are taking seriously the idea that they might be suited for, and called into, ordained priestly ministry. The number of people younger than 35 entering the priesthood each year has dropped from 300 in 1960 to less than 50 in 2000. "The price has been," says the Rev. Jim Lemler, "that we have almost lost a generation of potential ordained leaders. We have also lost that kind of energy and vigor that is brought into the church, and we need to find a way to regain it." Four mainline denominations, including the Episcopal Church, have developed a new collaborative partnership with the Fund for Theological Education in an effort to reverse the trend and encourage younger people to consider ordained priestly ministry. "It's an important step as we seek to embrace new leadership for the future," said Presiding Bishop Frank T. Griswold. The program, PLSE (pronounced "pulse"), is a Pastoral Leadership Search Effort that has drawn the participation of the Episcopal, Methodist, Presbyterian and United Church of Christ denominations. It offers a safe, web-based environment for young people to ask questions about ministry with their peers. Trainers frame questions for them and provide resource information, as well as conferences for young people who want to consider ordained priestly ministry. The website also points to those parishes and dioceses that actively recruit younger people. The DVD is part of a package mailed to all Episcopal parishes across the country. It includes two brochures - one directed to congregations and ministries, the other to young vocational explorers. I encourage you to dig around a little in your congregation and get your hands on it. Also, share the DVD for youth with your youth group. You never know who might feel called into ordained priestly ministry until you inquire. And do not be afraid to name the idea of ordained priestly ministry to those in whom you might recognize the particular gifts that ministry calls for. If you cannot locate your congregation's copy, please contact Heidi Clark in the Diocesan Offices.
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