Priest in Charge of the Lowestoft St Andrew and Kirkley benefices

Please contact the Bishop of Thetford for more details and an informal chat (bishop.thetford@dioceseofnorwich.org or 01953 528010).

About the Role

The Priest in Charge will lead the mission and ministry of the benefices of Lowestoft St Andrew and Kirkley, serving two vibrant and diverse coastal communities. The role involves pastoral care, worship leadership, and collaborative ministry with lay teams and ecumenical partners.

Responsibilities

• Provide spiritual leadership and oversight for the parishes of St Andrew’s, Lowestoft, and St Peter and St John, Kirkley.
• Develop and implement mission strategies to grow discipleship and outreach in the local context.
• Lead worship, including Sunday services, sacraments, and seasonal liturgies, ensuring they are accessible and engaging.
• Offer pastoral care to individuals, families, and the wider community, including visiting the sick, bereaved, and housebound.
• Work collaboratively with churchwardens, PCCs, and lay ministers to foster a shared vision for the benefices.
• Encourage and equip lay ministry, including training and support for worship leaders, pastoral assistants, and other volunteers.
• Engage with local schools, community groups, and ecumenical partners to build relationships and serve the wider community.
• Oversee the administration of the benefices, including safeguarding, finance, and compliance with diocesan policies.

Requirements

• Ordained priest in the Church of England or a church in communion with it, with a current license or permission to officiate.
• Experience in parish ministry, with a track record of leading worship, pastoral care, and mission initiatives.
• Ability to work collaboratively with lay teams, ecumenical partners, and diocesan staff.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with a commitment to inclusive and accessible ministry.
• Willingness to live within or near the benefices and participate in the life of the local community.
• Commitment to safeguarding and adherence to the Church of England’s policies and guidelines.

Skills

• Pastoral sensitivity and the ability to respond to the needs of a diverse community.
• Creative and flexible approach to worship and mission, with a heart for evangelism and discipleship.
• Organizational and administrative skills to manage parish resources effectively.
• Ability to inspire and motivate volunteers and lay leaders.
• Resilience and adaptability in a coastal context with unique social and economic challenges.