We are a large suburban parish, with a population of approximately 15,500, whose circumstances vary from significant affluence to financial hardship for many. The parish is located on the outskirts of Birkenhead and on the edge of beautiful Wirral countryside, enjoying easy access to Liverpool, with all its cultural amenities.
We can offer our next Vicar:
- A busy and lively church community (Electoral Roll: 336), welcoming people of all ages, ethnicity, gender and orientation, open to change whenever needed to further its mission.
- A church firmly established in the modern Catholic tradition, affirming the ministry of all men and all women at every level in the Church.
- A range of Sunday and weekday services, mainly Eucharistic (CW and occasionally BCP), but including less formal All-Age worship, monthly Evensong and monthly worship at St Andrew’s, with many occasional services.
- A significant and growing number of young families, mainly attending our Sunday All Age Service, with well supported groups and activities for children and young people, led by our Children and Young Families Leader.
- A Leadership Team including our Reader, a retired priest, Children and Young Families Leader and Parish Administrator.
- An enthusiastic Choir, Worship Band, Servers, Bell Ringers, Flower Guild, and volunteers supporting children’s work, social events and various PCC and Parish Centre committees.
- An excellent relationship with St Saviour’s Primary School, (219 pupils, VA but soon to become an academy in the diocesan MAT), at which our Children and Young Families Leader serves as Chaplain.
- A well maintained (1891) Parish Church, with a modern (2005) well used Parish Centre attached.
- St Andrew’s Church Centre, a place of worship, well used for a wide variety of activities by the local community it has served since 1973.
- A modern (late-1990s) four bedroomed Vicarage, in a quiet cul-de- sac close to the Parish Church.
We are praying for a Vicar who:
- Takes a central/modern Catholic theological position and will enjoy, respect and continue to develop our blend of traditional and less formal worship.
- Brings enthusiasm and excitement to the Christian faith through worship that is spiritually enriching and inclusive, and who teaches our faith well, especially to new church members.
- Is keen to offer pastoral support to those from all ages and backgrounds in our church family and beyond.
- Has a deep commitment to, and experience of, working with children and young people, in church and school settings.
- Is forward looking and can manage change sensitively.
- Is easy to talk with and a good listener.
- Is a collaborative, energetic and empowering leader.
- Is blessed with a sense of humour.
Closing date for applications: 17 November
Interviews: 2 December
Prospective applicants are welcome to discuss this post with The Bishop of Birkenhead via
Jennifer Kohn: PA to the Bishop of Birkenhead E: jennifer.kohn@chester.anglican.org
T: 01244 350864
Applications should also by preference be sent to this address.
Please note: The Diocese of Chester will not interview any candidate for posts if they cannot provide an assurance of a valid DBS and up to date safeguarding training.