Interim Priest-in-Charge (Three Years, Full-time) for the Lamp Group Benefice in the Archdeaconry of Buckingham

Overview

The Lamp Group of parishes wish to appoint an Interim Priest-in-Charge to lead its four churches (three parishes) towards a proposed reorganisation of the Newport Deanery, preparing the benefice for its ministry and mission in the years to come. 

 The four churches are All Saints in the parish of Emberton; St Peter in Tyringham with Filgrave; St Leonard and St Mary in the parish of Haversham with Little Linford.

Introduction

The forthcoming reorganisation of the Newport Deanery due to some clergy retirements makes this an exciting time to join the Lamp Group Benefice, with opportunities for developing the mission of the churches with committed laity to work with you. 

The Benefice is in a beautiful rural area, centrally located in the country with good transport links to all areas, and close to the facilities of Milton Keynes, Bedford and Northampton. 

Main Responsibilities

Leadership & Vision

• Lead the Benefice and each of the churches as appropriate to their individual situations.
• Help to plan effectively for the future, channelling ideas so that particularly fresh expressions offerings move with the times.  Help the Benefice to work through and embrace the forthcoming Deanery reorganisation.
• Recognise that an online presence is something the parishes must have and help them to further their vision and capability in this area.

Worship & Mission

• Value equally the different contexts and churchmanship of the churches and develop spiritual lives and community involvement as appropriate.
• Lead and develop the Worship team and provide support for Home Group leaders.
• Spearhead movement outside the church buildings and help to focus pastoral care initiatives.
• Embrace the Diocesan framework of becoming more Contemplative, Compassionate and Courageous churches.

Organisation & Support

• Be a practical and organised administrator, at ease with technology.
• Offer encouragement and sensitive feedback to all who work for our churches.

The Ideal Candidate

We are looking for someone who:

• Is a gifted and visionary team leader and team player, who can develop skills in others and delegate to laity where appropriate.
• Exhibits a vibrant faith, with a longing to lead people to Christ and who upholds the importance of prayer and prayer ministry.
• Will provide a theological lead and will help the benefice to grow spiritually, applying scriptural messages to all congregations from traditional through to fresh expressions.
• Has good people skills, and who enjoys communicating with Christians and non-Christians of all age-groups.  Values parochial visiting and is happy to sit down for a cup of tea with anyone.
• Has experience of rural ministry or is open to learning and embracing the unique requirements of diverse rural parishes.
• Looks to the future, is comfortable developing and working within planning frameworks and is keen to maintain the relevance of the rural church.

About us

We can offer you:

• An active and committed worship team and laity to support you.
• Welcoming and caring churches established in their communities.
• A beautiful rural area, yet close to the facilities of large towns and located centrally in the country.
• A well-designed four bedroomed modern Rectory set in lovely countryside with recreational opportunities nearby.

For further information please see the Benefice Profile (pdf file downloadable below) or call for an informal discussion with the Archdeacon of Buckingham, the Venerable Guy Elsmore, on 01865 208266.

Closing date for applications: Thursday 18 March 2021
Interviews: Thursday 29 April 2021

Enhanced DBS Disclosure required.