At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire our community through engaging ministry and outreach.
- Company: Welcoming church community in beautiful Suffolk, close to the coast.
- Benefits: Spacious vicarage, supportive team, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Other info: Join us in creating a culture of welcome and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by connecting with youth and families in a vibrant community.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and a passion for community engagement.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are a town and two villages on the outskirts of the county town of Ipswich, only 10 miles from the stunning Suffolk coast, set amid attractive countryside and well connected by road and rail.
Overview
We are praying for someone who values what is already special in our churches, while helping us discern where God is calling us next; is committed to growing younger through children's, youth, families, and community ministry; is naturally collaborative, enabling, encouraging, and empowering others, trusting in how God equips His people; will help us develop a benefice-wide vision, creating a genuine culture of welcome; and is an effective and engaging communicator, able to build positive relationships across congregations, partnerships, and the wider community.
We offer a spacious four-bedroomed vicarage, good admin support, and a capable ministry team.
Responsibilities & Qualities
- Values what is already special in our churches, while helping us discern where God is calling us next.
- Has a commitment to growing younger through children’s, youth, families, and community ministry.
- Is naturally collaborative, enabling, encouraging, and empowering others, trusting in how God equips His people.
- Will help us develop a benefice-wide vision, creating a genuine culture of welcome.
- Is an effective and engaging communicator, able to build positive relationships across congregations, partnerships, and the wider community.
Safeguarding & Equality
We are an equal opportunities employer and the DBF is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. All post holders and volunteers are expected to share this commitment. The care and protection of children, young people and vulnerable adults involved in church activities is the responsibility of the whole church. Everyone who participates in the life of the church has a role to play in promoting a Safer Church for all. Safeguarding is an integral part of the mission and ministry of the church in this diocese and is in line with our Growing in God strategy. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. Enhanced DBS check required.
Dates
- Closing date: 20 May 2026
- Interview date: 16/17 June 2026
How to Apply
For an informal conversation please email: Archdeacon Rich — 01473 252829 or 07710 479497. Note: This role is subject to safeguarding checks and to the church’s Safer Church policy. All information remains confidential between the applicant and the church during the selection process.
Vicar | Kesgrave with Little Bealings & Playford in Ipswich employer: Diocese of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich
Contact Detail:
Diocese of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Vicar | Kesgrave with Little Bealings & Playford in Ipswich
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the community! Spend some time in Kesgrave, Little Bealings, and Playford. Attend local events or services to understand their vibe and values. This will help you connect with the congregations and show that you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current members of the church and local leaders. Building relationships can give you insights into what they’re looking for in a Vicar and might even lead to a recommendation.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your collaborative spirit! During interviews or conversations, share examples of how you've empowered others in previous roles. Highlighting your ability to work as part of a team will resonate well with their vision.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Vicar | Kesgrave with Little Bealings & Playford in Ipswich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for community and ministry shine through. We want to see how you value what’s already special in our churches and how you envision growing younger through engaging with children, youth, and families.
Be Collaborative: Highlight your collaborative spirit! We’re looking for someone who can empower others and build positive relationships. Share examples of how you've worked with teams or communities to create a culture of welcome and support.
Communicate Effectively: Your written application is your first chance to communicate effectively, so make it count! Use clear and engaging language that reflects your ability to connect with diverse congregations and the wider community.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Diocese of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich
✨Know Your Community
Before the interview, take some time to familiarise yourself with Kesgrave, Little Bealings, and Playford. Understand their unique characteristics and community needs. This will help you demonstrate your commitment to growing younger through children's and youth ministry, showing that you value what is special in these areas.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Highlight your collaborative skills during the interview. Share examples of how you've empowered others in previous roles. The church is looking for someone who can enable and encourage their team, so be ready to discuss how you build positive relationships and foster a culture of welcome.
✨Communicate Effectively
As an effective communicator, it's crucial to convey your thoughts clearly and engagingly. Practice articulating your vision for the benefice-wide ministry and how you plan to connect with various congregations. Use relatable language and stories to illustrate your points, making it easier for the interviewers to see your potential impact.
✨Show Your Commitment to Safeguarding
Since safeguarding is a key responsibility, be prepared to discuss your understanding of its importance in church activities. Share any relevant experiences or training you've had in this area. This will reassure the interviewers that you take the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults seriously.