Are you a prayerful and compassionate priest who loves Jesus, values people and wants to help a welcoming church grow in faith, community and mission?
Set on the southern bank of the River Ribble in a thriving Lancashire community, St Mary's Church, Penwortham is an ancient parish church with over 1,300 years of Christian witness. Today we are a warm and welcoming church family with an electoral roll of around 110, strong links with our community and schools, and an exciting vision for the future. We are blessed by dedicated volunteers, committed lay leaders, excellent relationships with our two Church of England primary schools and a desire to share the love of Christ throughout Penwortham.
Our Vision
To be a sustainable, prayerful community of all ages in a building fit for purpose which enriches the lives of the wider community.
We are praying for a priest who will:
- Be deeply rooted in faith, prayer and the worshipping life of the Church.
- Lead us in growing as disciples of Jesus Christ through prayerful worship rooted in the Anglican tradition, faithful teaching and compassionate pastoral care
- Listen well and work collaboratively with us as we discern together God's call for the next chapter of St Mary's.
- Strengthen and develop our valued partnerships with Cop Lane CE Primary School and Howick CE Primary School, helping children and families encounter God's love.
- Have a heart for mission and community engagement, building relationships across Penwortham and beyond.
- Value the heritage of our Grade II* listed church and help us realise our vision for a building fit for mission, ministry and community life for future generations.
- Encourage, equip and develop the gifts of others, fostering a culture of shared ministry and service.
- Lead with humility, wisdom, warmth and compassion.
Closing date
Monday 26th October 2026
Interviews will be held on
Tuesday 10th November 2026
For an informal conversation about the post, please contact the Area Dean Hannah Boyd areadean.leyland@Blackburn.Anglican.Org
The Diocese of Blackburn believes that diversity enables us to thrive and develop and is committed to race equality, welcoming applications from UK Minority Ethnic/ Global Majority Heritage backgrounds
The Diocese of Blackburn are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We expect all clergy to share this commitment and promote a culture of safeguarding vigilance and care.
The successful applicant will be required to
- Undertake an Enhanced DBS check
- Complete all required safeguarding training
- Adhere to the House of Bishops' safeguarding policies and practice guidance
For information about Blackburn diocese please follow this link https://www.blackburn.anglican.org/
For information on making an application through Pathways please follow this link https://jobs.churchofengland.org/HELP/candidate-faq/
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Vicar of Penwortham St Mary employer: Church of England
The Church of England offers a supportive and collaborative work environment, where your contributions to the governance of church buildings will be valued and impactful. With a strong emphasis on professional development, you will receive comprehensive training and opportunities for growth within the Diocese of Liverpool. Join us in a role that not only fosters your administrative skills but also allows you to engage meaningfully with the community and its heritage.
