Interim Priest in Charge of St Stephen's Steeton (0.5 stipend)

Introduction

Steeton is home to over 5000 people as well as Airedale General Hospital.  In recent years, it has grown as many new houses have been built, and there are plans for more to come.  The need to welcome new people into the village has been recognised and some have joined St Stephen’s.  Continued engagement with new residents to give them the opportunity to discover Jesus and the life of the local church is therefore an important task for St Stephen’s.

 St Stephen’s Church is a significant focal point in its local community.  Some good work has taken place in recent years to renew and update the church fabric, but there are still some significant maintenance issues to address, particularly with the church hall.  It will be important to support those on the PCC who are tackling this responsibility.

 The last two incumbencies have been disappointingly short.  While they ended well, it was not long enough to see if new developments, such as mission and worship which reaches and nourishes a broader age-range, could be fully effective.  This is a key factor behind the decision to make an Interim Ministry appointment, with a clear and intentional focus on building up the missional and financial sustainability of the parish.  

From the perspective of the Episcopal Area, we see the overarching responsibility of the new priest is to provide clear and enabling leadership, which will foster growth numerically as well as spiritually and in service to their local community.  We are therefore seeking an enabling leader, capable of managing the changes needed carefully and sensitively, who can work with the congregation of St Stephen’s to reimagine ministry, grow the church (particularly amongst young families), develop confident discipleship, and nurture relationships within the village and local community in creative ways.  Especially given the part-time nature of this post, we are seeking a person who can develop others into ministry and leadership alongside them.

For a confidential chat about this post please contact Archdeacon Andy Jolley on 07973 458403 or andy.jolley@leeds.anglican.org

Closing date for applications is 28th June with interviews planned for 15th July.