At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead 5 rural churches, fostering community and sharing the message of Jesus.
- Company: The Diocese of Ely, committed to inclusivity and community engagement.
- Benefits: Spacious rectory, supportive colleagues, and generous leadership.
- Other info: Opportunity to develop a vision for a thriving church and manage exciting building projects.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in village life and grow faith together.
- Qualifications: People person with effective communication skills and a passion for youth outreach.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The role of Rector (designate) for The Paxtons with Diddington, Southoe and The Offords is an opportunity to lead 5 rural churches with a vision to grow in faith together, to be at the centre of village life and to share the message of Jesus. Building on faithful ministry, you will work with a team of paid and volunteer staff. You will find villages that value the role of the church and actively work alongside members.
Challenges
- Building a new sense of identity and vision after pastoral re‑organisation joined the church and village of the Offords to our benefice
- Completing (with diocesan & local support) a building project in Southoe church to make the church the centre of community in the village
- Growing the ministry team, and building on excellent work in local schools
Opportunities
- A legacy of deeply pastoral and missional leadership
- Some of the best adapted churches for rural mission
- Experienced admin support and faithful churchwardens
- Church and county schools welcoming the ministry of the church
Ideal Candidate
- People person – Genuine interest in people, effective communication with all ages, especially children and young families; good listener; sense of humour
- Team player who fosters the talents and enthusiasms of members of every age
- Person of prayer, faith and inclusion who can encourage, energise and inspire
- Vision – Able to help develop a vision for a growing and thriving church
- Manage growth & change; build partnership; keep us relevant; lead with wisdom & insight
- Values – both traditional and contemporary forms of worship flexing to meet the needs of the individual parishes
- Youth outreach – Develop the ministry to children and young families
- Fabric – Previous experience of building projects, sourcing of grants and ecclesiastical permissions for building works is preferred
Benefits
- Spacious modern rectory in quiet street
- Friendly supportive chapter colleagues
- Well funded CMD and support for clergy and their families
- Generous and pastoral senior leadership
Safeguarding
The Diocese of Ely is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expects all employees to undertake safeguarding checks and training relevant to their role and to adhere to the Church of England’s safeguarding policies and procedures. Therefore, this position is subject to an enhanced disclosure from the DBS (Disclosure & Barring Service).
Equal Opportunities
The Diocese of Ely is committed to creating and sustaining a diverse and inclusive workforce which represents our context and wider community. We are aware that those of Global Majority Heritage/United Kingdom Minority Ethnic (GMH/UKME), women, and disabled people are under‑represented among our clergy and workforce, and we particularly encourage applications from those with the relevant skills and experience that will increase this representation.
Rector (designate) for The Paxtons with Diddington, Southoe and The Offords in Ely employer: Diocese of Ely
The Diocese of Ely is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work on meaningful heritage projects in the picturesque setting of Wiggenhall St Mary Magdalene. With a strong commitment to conservation and community engagement, employees benefit from a collaborative work culture that fosters professional growth and development. The role not only allows for impactful contributions to local history but also provides a supportive environment where your expertise in architecture and surveying can truly shine.
