At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage with vibrant rural communities and lead innovative church initiatives.
- Company: Borderlink Benefice, a supportive and diverse group of parishes.
- Benefits: Opportunity to work in beautiful surroundings and make a real community impact.
- Why this job: Join a committed team and help shape the future of local faith communities.
- Qualifications: Experience in community engagement and collaborative ministry required.
- Other info: Located near Hay-on-Wye, with access to stunning natural landscapes.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Borderlink Benefice is a group of eight rural parishes along the south bank of the River Wye, and close to the border between England and Wales. Our small communities (the largest is 400 people, the smallest 77) have developed from the almost exclusively agricultural life of the early 20th century, and our parishes are varied and vibrant. The new priest will be ably supported by a committed Deanery Chapter and active lay team. We are located near to Hay-on-Wye which gives easy access to the world famous Literary festival, Brecon and Brecon Beacons National Park. The Benefice sits at the top end of Herefordshire Golden Valley.
The Bishop seeks a priest who:
- Has a proven ability to engage with a community school and enable Messy Church.
- Has the ability to balance strategic oversight with practical, hands-on ministry.
- Can demonstrate an ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
Borderlinks is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. All post holders are expected to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to acceptable pre-appointment checks, including a satisfactory Enhanced DBS with Barred Lists check. We are committed to equal opportunities and diversity in Hereford Diocese and welcome applications from all suitably qualified clergy. As UKME /GMH individuals are currently under-represented within our Diocese – we would particularly welcome applications from these candidates.
Further information, please contact: Ven Derek Chedzey, Archdeacon of Hereford
Application closure date: 8th February 2026
Interview dates: 25th & 26th February 2026
Priest in Charge and Rural Pioneer Priest of Borderlinks in Hereford employer: The Church of England
Contact Detail:
The Church of England Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Priest in Charge and Rural Pioneer Priest of Borderlinks in Hereford
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the community! Spend some time in the area, chat with locals, and understand their needs. This will not only help you connect better during interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your collaborative spirit! Highlight any past experiences where you've worked as part of a team, especially in community settings. We want to see how you can bring people together for a common cause.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for practical scenarios! Think about how you would engage with the community school or lead Messy Church. We love seeing candidates who can think on their feet and provide real-life examples.
✨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 tech-savvy and ready to embrace modern ministry.
We think you need these skills to ace Priest in Charge and Rural Pioneer Priest of Borderlinks in Hereford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Community: Before you start writing, take a moment to really understand the communities you'll be serving. Mention specific aspects of the Borderlink Benefice and how your experience aligns with their needs. This shows us that you're genuinely interested!
Showcase Your Skills: Highlight your ability to engage with schools and lead initiatives like Messy Church. We want to see how your hands-on ministry experience can bring life to our vibrant parishes. Be specific about your past successes!
Collaborative Spirit: Emphasise your teamwork skills! We’re looking for someone who can work well with our committed Deanery Chapter and lay team. Share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of everything and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Church of England
✨Know Your Community
Before the interview, take some time to learn about the Borderlink Benefice and its parishes. Understanding the unique characteristics of each community will help you demonstrate your ability to engage with them effectively.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
Be prepared to discuss examples of how you've worked as part of a team in previous roles. Highlighting your collaborative skills will reassure the interviewers that you can work well with the committed Deanery Chapter and active lay team.
✨Balance Strategy with Hands-On Ministry
Think of specific instances where you've successfully balanced strategic oversight with practical ministry. Sharing these experiences will illustrate your capability to manage both aspects effectively in this role.
✨Commitment to Safeguarding
Since safeguarding is a priority for the Borderlinks, be ready to talk about your understanding of safeguarding practices and how you've implemented them in your previous roles. This will show your alignment with their values and commitment to the welfare of children and vulnerable adults.