Vicar of Baxenden St John and Accrington St Paul

Introduction

Are you called to lead a welcoming parish in growing faith, confidence and mission across diverse communities?

Baxenden St John and Accrington St Paul, (JohnPaul Parish) are seeking a prayerful, collaborative priest who is approachable, compassionate and able to relate to people of all ages. Serving both semi-rural and urban communities, we are a welcoming church family rooted in our vision:

Reach Up • Reach In • Reach Out

This is an opportunity to lead a parish with two distinct church traditions and communities, and to help shape its next stage of growth and mission.

We are looking for a priest who will:

• provide clear and confident leadership, enabling the parish to grow in faith, confidence and number
• work collaboratively, developing the gifts of others and building strong teams
• lead change sensitively, with consultation and shared vision
• be a visible presence in the community, engaging with people from all backgrounds
• place the Gospel at the heart of worship, nurture prayer and discipleship, and respect the differing traditions within our two churches.
• Help us to strengthen links with local schools and community organisations
• Lead us in mission and Minister collaboratively as part of Hope4Accrington 

Closing date: 12 noon Thursday 11th June 2026

Interviews will be held on: Monday 22nd June 2026

For an informal conversation about the post, please contact the Archdeacon Jane Atkinson jane.atkinson@blackburn.anglican.org or Area Dean David Arnold David.Arnold@blackburn.anglican.org

The Diocese of Blackburn believes that diversity enables us to thrive and develop and is committed to race equality, welcoming applications from UK Minority Ethnic/ Global Majority Heritage backgrounds  

Diocese of Blackburn are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults.  We expect all clergy to share this commitment and promote a culture of safeguarding vigilance and care.

The successful applicant will be required to:

• Undertake an Enhanced DBS check
• Complete all required safeguarding training
• Adhere to the House of Bishops’ safeguarding policies and practice guidance

For information about Blackburn diocese please follow this link https://www.blackburn.anglican.org/ 

For information on making an application through Pathways please follow this link https://jobs.churchofengland.org/HELP/candidate-faq/