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- Tasks: Lead and support clergy in rural ministry while fostering community growth.
- Company: Join the Diocese of Ely in a beautiful part of Norfolk.
- Benefits: Flexible part-time role with housing options and office expenses covered.
- Other info: Enjoy a vibrant community with opportunities for innovation and growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a supportive community and grow younger disciples.
- Qualifications: Experienced priest with strong leadership and collaborative skills.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
The Deanery of Fincham & Feltwell covers those parts of West Norfolk that sit within the Diocese of Ely. The Deanery contains the market town of Downham Market (population 9,000) with 30 parishes/villages surrounding it. The total population is 38,000 and roughly 380 of these are on our electoral rolls. The Deanery is served by 4 full-time stipendiary clergy, with support from 3 self-supporting ministers, 8 licensed lay ministers and 8 clergy with PTO, alongside churchwardens, authorised lay ministers and administrators.
Your role will be to support all these leaders and unite them in the common purpose of renewing the church and growing younger disciples:
- Being pastor to the clergy and LLMs in the Deanery
- Leading Deanery Synod alongside the experienced Lay Chair
- Supporting and leading parishes in vacancy
- Liaising with the Bishop and Archdeacon so that diocesan strategy works to the benefit of growth in these rural areas
- Innovating, leading change, addressing problems with the soft skills of prayer, encouragement, challenge and example
The role is not all plain sailing! We have some PCCs with almost no officers, 2 churches being rebuilt after catastrophic fires, small congregations and significant financial challenges, as well as the priority to grow younger and more diverse. Yet we also have lots of opportunities: great relationships with local schools (many Church schools), some churches that have grown significantly, and a willingness to work together that has been carefully nurtured by former Rural Deans and Lay Chairs.
We seek an experienced priest, who is:
- Able to lead amidst diversity without taking sides
- Capable of delegating tasks and working collaboratively
- Kind, gentle and wise
- Open to new ideas, forward thinking and supportive of difference
- Inclusive and respectful, yet clear and principled
Terms: The House that accompanies this role is in the beautiful village of Watlington, which is near Downham Market and has its own train station. Alternatively, a housing allowance (currently £10,500) may be paid. Expenses of office will be provided. The Post will be held under Common Tenure Terms. Initial appointment is for 5 years.
Are you interested? Download Application Form below.
Rural Dean, Fincham and Feltwell Deanery, Norfolk, Diocese of Ely - House for Duty post in Watlington employer: The Church of England
Contact Detail:
The Church of England Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Rural Dean, Fincham and Feltwell Deanery, Norfolk, Diocese of Ely - House for Duty post in Watlington
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the church community and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. Personal connections can often lead to job openings that aren't advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the Deanery and its challenges. Show that you understand the unique needs of rural ministry and how you can contribute to growth and renewal in the community.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to showcase your soft skills! Highlight your ability to lead, delegate, and support others during discussions. The role requires a kind and wise approach, so let your personality shine through.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It's the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Rural Dean, Fincham and Feltwell Deanery, Norfolk, Diocese of Ely - House for Duty post in Watlington
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your experience in rural ministry and any relevant leadership roles you've held. We want to see how your background aligns with the responsibilities of the Rural Dean position.
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone kind, gentle, and wise, so don’t be afraid to share your unique approach to ministry and how you connect with diverse communities.
Address the Challenges: Acknowledge the challenges mentioned in the job description, like supporting parishes in vacancy or dealing with financial issues. Share your thoughts on how you would tackle these problems and lead change effectively.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensure everything is in order for your application process.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Church of England
✨Know Your Community
Familiarise yourself with the Fincham and Feltwell Deanery, its parishes, and the local community. Understanding the unique challenges and opportunities in rural ministry will show your commitment and readiness to engage with the congregation.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Be prepared to discuss your approach to leading diverse groups and how you foster collaboration among clergy and lay ministers. Share specific examples of how you've successfully navigated challenges in previous roles, highlighting your soft skills like encouragement and support.
✨Emphasise Inclusivity and Innovation
Demonstrate your openness to new ideas and your ability to lead change. Discuss how you plan to grow younger disciples and engage with the community, showcasing any innovative strategies you've implemented in the past.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Have a few insightful questions ready for the interviewers about their vision for the Deanery and how they see the role evolving. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.