Half-time Incumbent of Whaley Bridge and Taxal
The Parish of Whaley Bridge occupies the upper reaches of the beautiful Goyt Valley, on the western fringe of the picturesque Peak District. The main population is found in the small town of Whaley Bridge which occupies the northern half of the parish. The village of Kettleshulme and hamlets of Fernilee and Taxal are the other main centres of population.
We are a single-congregation church who worship in our two buildings on alternating weeks: Holy Trinity, Whaley Bridge and St James’s Taxal. Our recent QI inspection (April 2024) shows that both buildings are well maintained and in good order.
We are praying for a Vicar who…
• Is prayerful and spirit led and will teach the scriptures with enthusiasm and humour.
• Is willing to continue the very strong ecumenical links within the village and to further develop our common mission.
• Is keen to participate in community life and build supportive relationships with everyone inside and outside church.
• Has a heart and enthusiasm for encouraging children's work within our church and a willingness to embrace the needs of all ages.
• Has a calling to nurture the spiritual journey of our school children and to find opportunities to further involve our schools in church.
• Will encourage young adults both within our church and in the wider community to take a fuller part in church life.
• Has energy and creativity to help further develop and encourage our faith as we strive to live and grow as the body of Christ.
As we begin the next stage of our journey with God…
• We are open to new ideas and change.
• We would love to help people to grow closer to God through our worship and pastoral care including baptisms, weddings and funerals.
• We believe that there should be a focus on teaching and discipleship as we learn to follow Jesus together.
• We recognize the need to help young people and families connect with us in our common journey of faith.
• We want to continue to work closely with the other Christian communities in the town.
Might you be the person we need to come and lead us as we work together to respond to the challenges and opportunities before us?
This is a part time (0.5) post - 3.5 days a week plus Sunday for a stipend of £15,513.
Accommodation is offered in the vicarage opposite Holy Trinity Church. There are good local amenities, schools and transport links.
Closing date for applications: Sunday 16th March 2025
Interviews: Friday 4th April
The Diocese of Chester will not shortlist any candidate for posts if they cannot provide an assurance of a valid DBS and up to date safeguarding training.
If you would like to have an informal conversation, please contact:
Bishop of Stockport:
Rt Rev’d Sam Corley
E: bpstockport@chester.anglican.org
M: 07878 371 897