Priest in Charge for the Benefices of Borough Green (0.5) and Platt (0.5)

Introduction

The Bishop of Rochester seeks to appoint 

a Priest-in-Charge 

for the Benefices of the Church of the Good Shepherd, Borough Green (0.5) 

and St Mary the Virgin, Platt (0.5)

Borough Green and Platt are neighbouring parishes in the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty — a mile apart, with overlapping communities and a shared conviction that God is calling them into a closer future together. 

Borough Green is a large, busy village, well connected by rail to London and road to the wider county — and its church reflects that energy, reaching actively into a growing community. Platt, just a mile away, is quieter and more rural in character, and its church is deeply rooted in the close-knit life of a smaller village — with strong lay ministry, deep links to its Church of England primary school. Both villages share a Central tradition.

We are looking for someone who will:

• Lead confidently and collaboratively across two parishes with different characters
• Build trust and find common ground as both communities move towards a shared future
• Nurture and develop strong lay teams in both churches
• Be visible and engaged in village life, schools and the wider community
• Bring energy for mission, particularly among families, children and young people
• Work with both PCCs to help shape what this benefice can become

In return you will find warm and willing congregations, experienced lay teams, a shared part-time administrator, sound finances in both parishes, and a well-appointed four-bedroom vicarage in the centre of Borough Green.

Full details: www.rochester.anglican.org/xdb/vacancies 

Applications via Pathways: www.cofepathways.org 

Informal enquiries to Archdeacon Nick Cornell via: sal.hamlyn@rochester.anglican.org

Closing date for applications: 8 June 2026

Parish visits & Interviews will be held on 8 July 2026