Verger (Part-Time)

Overview

Working as part of the Verger team in the largest Cathedral in the UK (and 5^th largest in the World) you will be part of a busy team facilitating the requirements of liturgical services and secular events throughout the year. You will also provide a welcoming presence to the many visitors which the Cathedral attracts from around the world. 

The position is for 24.5 hours per week consisting of three 7 hour shifts and one 3.5 hour shift across a 7 day working week.

Standard shift timings are:

8.00am – 3.30pm or 11:00am – 6:30pm Monday to Saturday

8.00am – 3.30pm or 9:30am – 5:00pm or 11.30 - 7.30pm on Sunday

Flexibility will be required and a willingness to cover any required additional needs.

Closing date for applications is 17:00 Sunday 1st October 2023

Interviews will take place during week commencing Monday 9th October 2023

Introduction

Working as part of the team of Vergers, General Assistants & Cleaners or alone, the Verger’s role is to ensure that all services held in the Cathedral are setup as required and to assist clergy in the delivery of said services as appropriate. (see key duties in attached job description).

The Verger will assist with general housekeeping duties ensuring that the Cathedral is presented in the best possible way. Setting up and clearing away all events or any other activities held in the Cathedral, St. James’ House and their precincts as required.

The Verger will be required to work closely with and under the instruction of the Operations Manager and at times Chapter or other members of management who may be in a supervisory role for a particular service, event or activity.

At times and if appropriate when delegated to do so by management (dependant on experience) the Verger will supervise the work of a small team of casuals who come in to assist with setups and derigs of services, events & activities.

Main Responsibilities

Key Liturgical Duties:

• Setup of and clearing away of all services held in the Cathedral ensuring that the Cathedral is left neat and tidy afterwards.
• Reading of lessons & distribution of the Sacrament at Eucharistic services (with appropriate Chapter consent)
• Ceremonial and verging duties within all services as required.
• The upkeep and cleaning of all liturgical items and silverware within the Cathedral.
• Changing of all Altar Frontals in line with the Lectionary or as instructed including linen.
• Ensuring all candle prickets are kept fully stocked and stock keeping records updated.
• Notifying the Head Verger of any stock shortages

Concerts / Events / Meetings and activities

• Ensuring as part of a team or alone that the logistics of an event or activity are fully met according to deadlines set.
• Ensure in the same way that everything is cleared away and stored in its assigned place on derig of an event or activity and that the Cathedral is subsequently left neat and tidy.
• Building of stages and setting up of P.A. systems as required (under appropriate instruction).
• Removal of all rubbish to the designated collection point as required.

N.B. (Some of the above will require heavy lifting)

Health and Safety

• Being vigilant ensuring that all areas of the Cathedral that are accessible to staff, visitors & contractors are maintained in a safe and secure manner and that any hazards, defects or security issues are reported to the Head Verger, H&S Manager or other member of Management
• Being aware of their own health and safety and that of others
• Following all safety procedures & wearing appropriate clothing especially in regard to safety footwear.

The above list cannot be exhaustive & the Associate Verger will be required to undertake any other duties not specifically listed above as may be required and commensurate with their role.

The Ideal Candidate

The person we are looking for will:

• have the ability to handle a diverse range of tasks
• have a ‘can do’ attitude
• be a committed team player who is respectful of colleagues and the wider needs of the organisation
• have an eye for detail and presentation
• be physically fit in order to rearrange furniture as required
• be able to work early mornings, late evenings, weekends and be flexible as required by changing business needs.

Please refer to the JD and Person Specification 

About us

What we offer:

• A varied role with support to learn and to put your skills in to practice
• You will be a part of a friendly team with a shared sense of purpose
• 25 days annual leave pro-rata
• Non-contributory pension scheme with generous employer contributions (additional voluntary contributions may be made)
• Employee Assistance Programme giving you 24-hour access to support for your health and wellbeing
• A supportive culture with core values of Integrity, Inclusivity, Dynamic and Excellence
• Employee discount in Cathedral shop and bistro

Free on-site parking, secure bike storage and easy access to public transport

Liverpool Diocese and Cathedral are committed to treating our whole community with dignity and respect. We desire to represent diverse identities within our community whether this be by race, culture, religion, sexual orientation, gender, disability or social background of each person to ensure they fulfil their potential within a proactive, loving and caring environment. 

Encounter Liverpool Cathedral

Liverpool Cathedral is a place of spiritual and cultural significance for the city and region of Liverpool. From its foundation in the early part of the 20^th century it has existed as community and building built by the people, for the people to the glory of God.

Liverpool Cathedral is more than an iconic Grade 1* listed building. It’s a vibrant, active place that the people of the city, regions and world encounter in many ways. So alongside those who come for one of our daily worship services, people may encounter us for a gala dinner or a school trip. A tourist may visit us or we could be hosting an awards ceremony or graduations. People encounter us in many ways. But in each way, we hope they encounter a warm welcome and sense of God.

As part of their visit we believe everyone will encounter:

• Inspiring Christian worship

• A breathtaking experience

• A community committed to justice and mercy

• A safe, generous place in joy and sorrow

 • A dynamic community of staff and volunteers

• A God who knows and loves you.

Working for Liverpool Cathedral will bring you into a community that seeks to make those encounters happen. You will be someone who can subscribe to, and live out, our values of excellence, dynamic, integrity and inclusive. You will have the benefits of working in a landmark building with colleagues who are serious about the work life balance with generous holiday allowances and access to an Employee Assistance Programme. We have a strong working partnership with the Diocese of Liverpool bringing extra support to our activities.

For more information about Liverpool Cathedral go to www.liverpoolcathedral.org.uk