Associate Minister (HfD) for the Benefice of Datchet, Eton with Eton Wick, Boveney and Dorney

Introduction

OVERVIEW

The Benefice of Datchet, Eton, Eton Wick, Boveney and Dorney is currently in a formative stage as the Parishes continue the process of establishing a new joint Benefice, expected to be completed during 2026. The Benefice is located along the north side of the River Thames between Windsor and Slough and benefits from excellent transport connections, including the M4, M25 and M40, rail links to London, and close proximity to Heathrow Airport.

The churches within the Benefice are connected by convenient roads, open parklands and sections of the Thames Path, offering both rural beauty and easy accessibility. As the Benefice moves into this new stage of its life, there is a shared sense of opportunity as we shape our life and mission together.

We are prayerfully seeking to appoint an Associate Minister (House for Duty) who is invited to live in the vicarage in Datchet and work alongside the Rector in the shared leadership of worship, mission and pastoral care across the Benefice.

This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the development of the shared vision and Mission Action Plan for the newly forming Benefice, helping each Parish to express its unique identity while working together in partnership.

The Associate Minister will support the Benefice in deepening discipleship, strengthening pastoral care and developing opportunities for mission within our communities.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

We believe our focus for the coming years will include:

•    Supporting the development and implementation of the Benefice’s shared vision and Mission Action Plan

•    Encouraging and developing lay ministry across the Benefice, supporting and equipping volunteers in areas such as youth, family and community engagement

•    Supporting congregations to grow in discipleship, faith and confidence in sharing the gospel

•    Sharing in leading worship and providing pastoral care across the Benefice, including supporting our vibrant ministry with wedding couples

•    Building and strengthening relationships with local communities, including our well-established links with several local schools and community organisations

•    Working collaboratively with clergy, lay leaders and volunteers across the Benefice to develop opportunities for mission and outreach

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

We are prayerfully seeking someone who:

•    Plays a key role in developing the Church’s Mission Action Plan and strengthening our engagement with the local community

•    Has strong interpersonal skills, is approachable, and communicates easily with people of all ages and backgrounds

•    Works collaboratively and enjoys encouraging and developing lay ministry

•    Has strong interpersonal skills and relates easily to people of all ages and backgrounds

•    Is committed to building relationships with the wider community

•    Demonstrates a strong commitment to safeguarding and the wellbeing of all within the church community

ABOUT US

We offer the opportunity to help shape the culture, vision and mission of a newly forming Benefice as we discern together how God is calling us to serve our communities in the years ahead.

The Benefice offers a collaborative ministry environment supported by dedicated lay leaders, volunteers and the wider deanery and diocesan family. Our congregations are prayerful and welcoming, committed to living out Christ’s commandment to love and serve others.

The Associate Minister is invited to live in the spacious four-bedroom vicarage in Datchet, providing comfortable accommodation and a supportive setting for life and ministry within easy reach of London, Windsor and surrounding communities.

For further information about the Benefice, our vision and our plans for the future, please read the Parish Profile.

Informal conversations are welcome. Please contact the Reverend Andreas Sistig on 07595542143  or andreassistig@gmail.com.

Closing date for applications: Thu 23 April (midnight)

Interviews: Sun 24 May/Mon 25 May 

Enhanced DBS Disclosure required.