Our vision as a diocese is about confident clergy equipping confident Christians to live and tell the good news of Jesus Christ. For all our appointments we are seeking clergy who have a joyful and confident faith which has inspired a track record of church growth.
The benefice of Bardsey comprises a single parish with two churches -- All Hallows, Bardsey, and St Mary Magdalene, East Keswick -- in two attractive villages to the north east of Leeds with a total population of 3,594.
The congregations have grown in recent years, both in numbers and in service to the community. There is an enthusiasm to welcome the whole community into the life of the church.
The index of multiple deprivation ranks the parish in the top decile nationally, which brings its own challenges and opportunities. There are active and capable lay leaders who encourage an outward-looking and inclusive ethos. There is good support for eco-mission and for a food share project in an inner city parish.
The PCCs say:
We are looking for a vicar who can lead us in:
- Building on the community mission we have established in the past few years, so that our churches can remain at the heart of the community.
- Supporting adult enquirers and development of appropriate courses for people to grow in discipleship.
- Continuing to see the churches not just as a building for the few but as a resource for the whole community – to encourage through our doors those who do not come to church.
We are seeking of new Vicar who:
- is able to inspire our congregation, help us grow in faith, and encourage new people into our Church life, encouraging young families whilst still having regard for the older members of our congregation.
- approachable and a strong communicator, with good people and pastoral skills, who will be happy to work well with all aspects of our village communities.
- respectful of our traditions and adaptable to the needs of this Church community, while also open to exploring new ideas.
- willing to encourage and enable laity in the planning and leading of worship.
- willing to work with us to build on and develop our mission to the local community, including our work with children and families and eco church, as we embrace change and explore new ideas and forms of worship.
- not afraid to address and manage difficult situations that may arise, with a supportive attitude and a sense of humour.
If this is you, please take time to read the role description, brochure and parish profile.
If you would like an informal conversation regarding the vacancy, please contact Ven Paul Ayers, Archdeacon of Leeds at paul.ayers@leeds.anglican.org
Closing date 28/5/25
Interview: 16/6/25