Vicar of Accrington St John with Huncoat St Augustine

Introduction

A church family of all ages and backgrounds, joyfully worshipping and serving God in the Way of Jesus

Are you a prayerful, enthusiastic and servant-hearted priest with a passion for parish ministry and helping people encounter Jesus Christ?

We are a welcoming parish of two churches serving the communities of Accrington and Huncoat in East Lancashire. Rooted in a warm and inclusive Central/Liberal Catholic tradition, we are committed to worship, prayer, discipleship and service, and enjoy strong partnerships with our schools and local communities. Supported by dedicated lay leaders, active PCCs and committed volunteers, we are seeking a Vicar who will help us build on our strengths, grow in faith and discipleship, and lead us into an exciting new chapter of mission and ministry.

We are looking for a vicar who:

• Is rooted in prayer, scripture and the Gospel.
• Is warm, approachable, enthusiastic and servant-hearted, with a good sense of humour.
• Is an inspiring communicator who can connect with people of all ages and backgrounds.
• Will work collaboratively with lay ministers, PCCs, volunteers, schools and community partners.
• Has a heart for children, young people and families and will help us build on our thriving children's and youth ministries.
• Will be visible, welcoming and actively involved in the life of our communities.
• Values and encourages every-member ministry, helping people recognise and use their God-given gifts
• Can help us grow in discipleship, worship and mission while developing new opportunities for outreach and evangelism.
• Is excited by the opportunities presented through the Hope for Accrington initiative and the planned Huncoat Garden Village development.
• Will lead us in building a safe, welcoming and faithful church for all.

If you share our vision of being a church family of all ages and backgrounds, joyfully worshipping and serving God in the Way of Jesus, empowered by the Spirit, we would love to hear from you.

Closing date: Monday 21st September 2026

Interview date: Wednesday 7th October 2026

For an informal conversation about the post, please contact the 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/