At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead vibrant church communities, preach, teach, and support pastoral care.
- Company: Dynamic urban parish with a strong evangelical tradition.
- Benefits: Modern housing provided and opportunities for personal growth.
- Other info: Diversity welcomed; safeguarding commitment is essential.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the community and share the good news of Jesus.
- Qualifications: Strong sense of calling, team player, and inspirational preacher.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are seeking an Associate Rector for this very large urban parish of open evangelical tradition. St Thomas Ellesmere Port and St Lawrence Stoak are two vibrant churches with extensive and growing community links. You would be part of a hugely gifted and supportive team, lay and ordained. There are enormous missional opportunities.
Responsibilities
- Work in partnership with the Rector and other clergy in leading the church, preaching and teaching regularly across congregations.
- Work with both Church of England schools (one primary, one secondary) in the parish, and with other primary schools to further God’s Kingdom.
- Take on responsibility for particular ministry areas within the church, based on your gifts, in conversation with the Rector.
- Act as a point of contact for pastoral care, providing support, counsel, and visiting those in need.
Qualifications
- Feels a strong sense of call to the parish of Ellesmere Port.
- Has a deep devotion to Christ.
- Will lead alongside our Rector in all areas of parish ministry.
- Is a team player, collaborator and communicator who can work effectively and harmoniously with the Rector, fellow clergy, staff, and lay leaders.
- Is a strategic thinker who is comfortable with navigating change, setting plans, managing projects, and delegating responsibilities effectively, while practising good self‑care and workload management.
- Is an inspirational evangelical preacher who can deliver services with enthusiasm and can relate them to our lives.
- Has a desire to reach out beyond the church walls and share the good news of Jesus in creative ways.
- Will foster a good safeguarding culture in the parish, to ensure that the church is a safe space for everyone.
A good, modern house is provided for the Associate Rector.
Closing date for applications: 7 December 2025
Interviews: 13 January 2026
You are very welcome to contact the Rector, the Revd Rachel Newell, for an informal conversation on 07594 277453 or rev.r.newell@gmail.com
The Diocese of Chester is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. An Enhanced DBS Disclosure will be required for the successful candidate. Applicants are required to submit relevant training certificates with their applications. They will not be shortlisted unless they can provide an assurance of up‑to‑date safeguarding training and a valid DBS check for their current post.
Diversity
We will particularly welcome applications from underrepresented groups.
Associate Rector employer: Ministry Support Officer & Flourish Co
Aston by Sutton, Little Leigh and Lower Whitley parish is an excellent employer that fosters a strong sense of community and faith. With a supportive work culture, opportunities for personal growth, and a commitment to safeguarding, this role offers a meaningful way to engage with the local community while enjoying the benefits of a modern parsonage. Join us in making a positive impact in the lives of others in a welcoming environment that values diversity.
Contact Details:
Ministry Support Officer & Flourish Co Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Rector
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your community, especially those connected to the church or local schools. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights into the role that you won't find in the job description.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by practising your preaching and teaching skills. Think about how you can relate your messages to everyday life, as this is key for the Associate Rector role. We want to see your passion shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Show us your strategic thinking! Be ready to discuss how you would manage projects and navigate change within the parish. Bring examples of past experiences where you've successfully led initiatives or collaborated with others.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our vibrant community at St Thomas and St Lawrence.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Rector
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Authentic:When you're writing your application, let your true self shine through. We want to see your passion for the role and your commitment to the community. Share your personal journey and how it aligns with our mission at St Thomas and St Lawrence.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific responsibilities and qualifications mentioned in the job description. Highlight your experience in pastoral care, preaching, and working with schools, as these are key areas for us.
Showcase Your Team Spirit:We’re looking for a collaborator who can work harmoniously with our Rector and the rest of the team. Use your application to demonstrate your teamwork skills and any previous experiences where you’ve successfully worked with others in ministry.
Follow Up:After submitting your application through our website, don’t hesitate to reach out for an informal chat with the Rector. It shows initiative and gives you a chance to ask any burning questions you might have about the role or the parish.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ministry Support Officer & Flourish Co
✨Know Your Community
Before the interview, take some time to understand the community of Ellesmere Port. Familiarise yourself with the local culture, the needs of the parish, and how you can contribute to its growth. This will show your genuine interest in the role and help you connect with the interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Preaching Skills
As an Associate Rector, preaching is a key part of the role. Prepare a short sermon or reflection that you can share during the interview. This will not only demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively but also give the interviewers a taste of your style and passion for sharing the good news.
✨Highlight Team Collaboration
Emphasise your experience working in teams, especially in church settings. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've collaborated with others, managed projects, and navigated change. This will reassure the interviewers that you can work harmoniously with the Rector and fellow clergy.
✨Prepare Questions About Mission Opportunities
Think about the missional opportunities mentioned in the job description. Prepare thoughtful questions about how the church currently engages with the community and what future initiatives might look like. This shows your strategic thinking and desire to reach out beyond the church walls.
