Vicar of Sittingbourne Holy Trinity with Bobbing
The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Sittingbourne Holy Trinity Sittingbourne, England, United Kingdom
Hours
Full Time
Description of Job
This role description is intended to support the appointment of a priest who will serve as Vicar across the two parishes, leading them in Christ-centred worship, Spirit-filled prayer, confident evangelism, loving pastoral care and joyful community engagement. Until a recent Deanery Pastoral Reorganisation, these two Parishes were one but have chosen to separate whilst still a Benefice, to better reflect their individual contexts and identities. This role therefore offers the opportunities of a larger town-centre church with a growing semi-rural parish, and calls for a priest who can lead with biblical conviction, prayerful dependence on the Holy Spirit, and a heart to see people come to faith and grow as disciples of Jesus.
Purpose of the role
To share with the Bishop the cure of souls in these parishes; to lead the people of Holy Trinity Sittingbourne and the people of St Bartholomew’s Bobbing in worship, prayer, witness and service; to help both churches establish and settle; to grow as communities of disciples who know and love Jesus Christ; and to equip God’s people in the power of the Holy Spirit for mission, ministry and everyday witness.
- Spiritual leadership and worship: Lead public worship and preaching that is biblical, Christ-centred, expectant and accessible, helping both congregations grow in heartfelt worship, confident prayer and openness to the person and work of the Holy Spirit.
- Discipleship and formation: Foster a culture of disciple-making through faithful teaching, sacramental ministry, prayer, small groups, mentoring, lay development and the nurturing of vocations.
- Pastoral care: Offer visible, compassionate pastoral leadership across both parishes, including baptisms, weddings, funerals, bereavement support, visiting and care for those who are vulnerable, isolated or in need.
- Mission and evangelism: Lead each church in sharing the good news of Jesus with confidence and warmth, helping them reach new people, deepen their welcome, and build on existing outreach among men, women, children, families, schools, older people and those facing hardship or poor mental health.
- Children, youth and families: Champion ministry among children, young people and families, encouraging intergenerational church life and helping existing teams to grow in confidence, number and effectiveness so that all generations are formed as disciples.
- Collaborative leadership: Work closely with churchwardens, PCC members, lay ministers, volunteers and ministry teams in each parish. Encourage shared leadership; and identify, release, nurture and support the gifts of others so that each church may flourish in ministry.
- Community engagement: Strengthen relationships with local schools, community groups, partner churches and agencies, serving the community practically while bearing a visible and vibrant Christian witness in Sittingbourne and Bobbing.
- Safeguarding and inclusion: Model and maintain a strong safeguarding culture, promoting safer recruitment and training in both churches so that people of all ages and backgrounds can find welcome and a sense of belonging and care.Understanding of disability and neurodivergence across all age groups.
- Governance and stewardship: Work with parish officers in the good stewardship of buildings, finances and resources, ensuring legal and administrative responsibilities are met and that church life remains sustainable, well-led and mission-focused.
Whoever takes up this post will be warmly welcomed into the life and support structures of the Diocese of Canterbury. Every Incumbent and Priest in Charge is accompanied through the Canterbury Diet, our framework for sustaining healthy, effective ministry - including regular pastoral supervision, a spiritual accompanier, and a structured Ministry Training Programme in the early years of ministry.
Closing date: Sunday 3rd January 2027
Interview date: Thursday 4th February 2027
The priest appointed to this role must be ordained in the Church of England, or in a Church in communion with it, and must have successfully completed a training post with the appropriate sign-offs required to apply for an incumbency or other ordained role.
Applicants must have the right to work in the UK as this role does not currently qualify for visa sponsorship.
The priest appointed will serve as an office holder under Common Tenure, and the Ecclesiastical Offices (Terms of Service) Regulations will apply.
The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Sittingbourne Holy Trinity
We are a friendly, generous and welcoming church; keen to move forward and grow as disciples of Jesus Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit, trusting in God’s Word, bringing honour to our Father as we seek His Kingdom.
We are part of the New Wine network and value their mission and ministry style. We are connected to the Church of England Evangelical Council and the Canterbury Diocesan Evangelical Network, and value their support on matters of orthodoxy.
Vicar of Sittingbourne Holy Trinity with Bobbing employer: New Wine
St Dionis Church is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and supportive work culture, where your contributions directly impact the community. With a focus on employee growth and development, you will have the opportunity to engage in meaningful work alongside dedicated clergy and staff, all while enjoying a beautiful environment in London. The role of Operations and Office Manager not only offers competitive compensation but also allows you to play a pivotal part in enhancing church operations and supporting local charity partnerships.
