Mustard Seed Associate Programme Leader

Overview

We are committed to seeing the body of Christ thrive in all of our communities, and long to see people flourish and enjoy life in all its fullness.  The reality is that for many people life is tough, particularly those living in areas with ‘multiple deprivations’. In these places people face many challenges and so we want our churches to be present, walking alongside people in the ups and downs of life, sharing God’s love with them.

Introduction

The Mustard Seed programme has been developed in response to a careful listening exercise, spending time with clergy and lay people in Middlesbrough, Hull and our coastal communities. We wanted to hear their stories, longings and vision for sharing the gospel where they live.  We hope and pray that the Mustard Seed programme will be a source of new life and hope in places ‘where life is tough.’

Our vision is to see worshipping communities developed as places of welcome, hospitality and support for local people in the challenges they face. Whether in church or other community buildings, they will offer opportunities for prayer, experiencing the love of God, exploring faith, and encountering Jesus.  Pathways of discipleship will help to build communities of local people who are followers of Jesus.

More information about this work, and the key interventions through which we will work with parishes to deliver on this vision, can be found in the attached document.

Main Responsibilities

The Mustard Seed Programme Leader, Heather Black, was appointed in February 2020 to develop the programme across the diocese.  Delivery of Stepping Up began in Middlesbrough and Hull in September 2020.  Heather was recently joined by two Associate Programme Leaders (APL), who will be activating Stepping Up in coastal communities from January 2021.

We now have an opportunity for a servant-hearted, energetic and encouraging APL to complete the team.  Based in Teesside, you will help us roll–out the Mustard Seed Programme across our Middlesbrough and Guisborough Deaneries.  Working closely with the Programme Leader, the role involves leading on Stepping Up there and supporting local lay people in developing mission initiatives to grow disciples and worshipping communities rooted in their local context.  

The Ideal Candidate

You will be a Christian wholeheartedly committed to worship and witness, with an understanding of the challenges faced by people living and worshipping in areas of multiple deprivation. You will be comfortable working within Church of England structures and cultures.  You will be self-motivated and well-organised, willing to work as part of a team towards common goals. 

About us

The Diocese of York

The Diocese of York takes in much of North and East Yorkshire, including the cities of York, Hull and Middlesbrough, and two National Parks.  Extending from the River Tees to the River Humber, and from around the A1 road to the incomparable Yorkshire coast, the area is home to around 1.4 million people.

We are a family of 589 churches and 125 schools in 443 parishes, led and guided in their faith and work by the Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell.  York Minster is our principal church.  Our vision is to be a family of Generous Churches Making and Nurturing Disciples.

We are currently working through a Diocesan Strategy that focuses on:

Reaching those we currently don't
Moving to Growth
Achieving sustainable finances

Find out more about us by visiting our website.

Applying for this Post

Further details are provided in the attached Job Pack and Programme Overview.

For an informal conversation about the roles please contact Heather Black, Mustard Seed Programme Leader: Tel 07852 151740; Email heather.black@yorkdiocese.org

Please apply online using the 'Apply' button.  The deadline for applications is Wednesday 13 January.

Interviews are planned for 27th and 28th January (candidates will need to be available both days.)  The selection process will be carried out in line with the public health guidance applicable at the time.

Appointment is subject to a satisfactory Enhanced DBS disclosure.  Applicants must be eligible to work in the UK.