At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a vibrant parish community and engage with diverse groups.
- Company: St Stephen's Parish, a historic and welcoming community in Canterbury.
- Benefits: Part-time role with stipend and housing provided.
- Why this job: Join a re-energised team and make a meaningful impact in the community.
- Qualifications: Experience in church leadership and a passion for music and choral traditions.
- Other info: Opportunity for growth and collaboration in a supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 30000 £ per year.
The Parish of St Stephen, Hackington, Canterbury invites applications for the post of Rector of the parish. This is a part-time position (0.5 stipend plus house). St Stephen’s is a prominent residential parish in the north east quarter of the city. It contains a variety of housing, including a historic village centre, a large housing estate and about half of the campus of the University of Kent.
This is an excellent opportunity to take on leadership of a parish in the liberal catholic tradition at a time when things are looking up in its life. Since the departure of the last incumbent, an interim priest in charge has taken the helm and the PCC has turned around its finances. There is still a lot of work to do but there is a re-energised group of people with whom that work can be shared.
Music plays a large part in the life of the parish and an enthusiasm for the choral tradition of the place is essential.
If you would like a conversation about this position please be in touch with the Archdeacon’s office via Caroline Hemington, chemington@diocant.org, for an appointment.
Closing Date: 9 February 2026
Interview Date: 10 March 2026
Rector of St Stephen, Hackington, Canterbury employer: Church of England
Contact Detail:
Church of England Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Rector of St Stephen, Hackington, Canterbury
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your community or the church network. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities you might not find online.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for music and the choral tradition! If you have experience or ideas, share them during conversations. It’ll help you stand out as a candidate who truly understands the parish's vibe.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t hesitate to ask questions when you connect with the Archdeacon’s office. It shows your interest and helps you get a better feel for the role and the community.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way!
We think you need these skills to ace Rector of St Stephen, Hackington, Canterbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start writing, make sure you fully understand what the role of Rector involves. Pay attention to the specific qualities and experiences they’re looking for, as this will help you tailor your application.
Show Your Passion for the Parish: Let us see your enthusiasm for St Stephen’s and its community! Share your thoughts on how you can contribute to the parish's growth and revitalisation, especially in relation to its music and choral traditions.
Be Personal and Authentic: We want to get to know the real you! Use your application to share personal stories or experiences that highlight your leadership style and connection to the liberal catholic tradition.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you don’t miss any important updates about the process.
How to prepare for a job interview at Church of England
✨Know Your Parish
Familiarise yourself with the history and current activities of St Stephen, Hackington. Understanding the community's needs and the parish's role within it will show your genuine interest and commitment.
✨Emphasise Your Leadership Style
Be ready to discuss your approach to leadership, especially in a church setting. Share examples of how you've successfully led a team or congregation, particularly in challenging times, to demonstrate your capability.
✨Show Your Passion for Music
Since music is vital to the parish, express your enthusiasm for the choral tradition. If you have experience in music ministry or leading choirs, be sure to highlight this during the interview.
✨Engage with the Interview Panel
Prepare thoughtful questions for the interview panel about their vision for the parish's future. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the parish aligns with your values and goals.