Vicar of Leyland St James

Introduction

With one church building in great condition and one wonderful church primary school on the same site, this Parish, which is in the liberal catholic tradition, provides an opportunity for a priest with a pastoral heart to get on with the job of declaring the Gospel. 

St James’ is a lively parish with strong community ties, a rich musical heritage, and a deep commitment to outreach and youth engagement. This full-time post offers a spacious vicarage, extremely committed and supportive lay leaders and exciting opportunities for growth in a rapidly expanding area.

St James’ serves the Moss Side area of Leyland, a semi-rural and suburban community with generous green spaces and a mix of residential and light industrial areas. With over 2,500 new homes planned, our population is expected to grow to 12,500. We are excited about the opportunity this presents to welcome new families and make new disciples. Leyland offers excellent amenities, outstanding schools, convenient transport links, and a strong sense of local pride. It is in every sense a delightful place to live.

Vision

We are a church at the heart of a growing community, passionate about deepening faith, expanding outreach, and welcoming new expressions of worship. We have valued participation in the Diocesan Renewal Programme which has enabled to set clear priorities. 

Our PCC is committed to Vision 2026 and its goal to grow healthy churches that transform communities. Our own PCC mission statement is to be a church that is: “Open, inclusive, and rooted in the love of Christ.” 

We are looking for a priest who will:

• Help us grow in faith, number, and outreach.
• Have a love for the Eucharist and be confident in leading a variety of styles of worship and prayer.
• Love people and provide pastoral care and spiritual guidance with warmth and empathy.
• Inspire and engage with all ages, especially children and young families.
• Embrace innovation and change, while honouring tradition.
• Work collaboratively with our PCC, volunteers, and wider community.
   
   

Closing date: Monday 15^th September

Interviews will be held on: 6^th October 2025

For an informal conversation about the post, please contact The Revd Andy Meeson Chaplain@bishopofblackburn.org.uk 

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  

The Diocese of Blackburn is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. All post holders and volunteers are expected to share this commitment. 

For information about Blackburn diocese please follow this link https://jobs.churchofengland.org/blackburn/vision-2026/

For information on making an application through Pathways please follow this link https://jobs.churchofengland.org/HELP/candidate-faq/