House for Duty Chaplain to the Almshouses of St John's Hospital, Canterbury and St Nicholas' Hospital, Harbledown

Introduction

The Trustees of two ancient almshouse foundations in Canterbury — St John’s Hospital, Canterbury, and St Nicholas Hospital, Harbledown — are seeking to appoint an Anglican Priest to serve as Chaplain, offering spiritual and pastoral care to around 35–40 older residents, most of whom are retired and of limited means.

Founded in the 11th century, these two historic communities provide peaceful homes and a close-knit Christian environment. The Chaplain plays a central role in the life of the residents, leading regular worship, offering pastoral support, and encouraging neighbourly care and shared faith.

This is a part-time, residential, unsalaried role, with a generous, rent-free ground-floor flat in the centre of Canterbury — just two minutes from the cathedral — provided. The accommodation includes a private garden, garage, and visitor parking. All reasonable expenses, including council tax and utilities, will be covered.

We are seeking a priest in good standing, with a pastoral heart, spiritual maturity, and a gift for presence and prayer among older people. A full driving licence and access to a car is essential, due to the distance between the two sites (two miles).

More information about the almshouses and the role can be found in the attached profile.