Vicar (0.5 FTE) of Laneside St Peter

Introduction

We seek to appoint a priest to serve on a half-time basis, leading the Parish of Laneside St Peter. This is a compact single-church benefice, with excellent and flexible buildings, in the former mill-town of Haslingden, Lancs. Although currently a half-stipend post, the there is a strong desire to grow the congregation and the giving base to the point where this post could become full-time again. The tradition of the church is central, but with openness to welcome the gifts of whoever God is calling to this role.

The congregation at St Peter’s offers a warm welcome, a strong commitment to faith, enthusiasm, and an openness to moving forward and embracing new initiatives.

We are seeking a priest who will nurture the Kingdom of God in the local community, and who will grow the congregation, offering vision in worship and ministry, modelling deep pastoral care, and inspiring the congregation as they join in God’s mission of love and hope. 

The Parish’s Mission Statement:
We pray that, in the name of Jesus, we will build bridges of fellowship and love between one another, the wider community, other Christian denominations, the Diocese and the Church throughout the world.

 Our Vision

 We are looking for a priest who:

• has energy, motivation and vision to inspire and lead St.Peter’s forward in growth
• cares deeply about people within their care and can reach out to those who need care and support within the wider community
• can build bridges and maintain relationships with all the Christian Churches in the town
• will engage with those of other faiths
• can inspire people and be open to different styles of worship
• has good relational skills and has experience of working collaboratively
• has a sense of humour and will engage with the church and community on a social basis

Closing date: 2^nd April 2025

Interviews will be held on: 24^th April 2025

We welcome applications from all candidates, noting that the post might work well for a priest who seeks to balance an additional time commitment to other projects, or to family or carer responsibilities.

For an informal conversation about the post, please contact Area Dean, The Revd David Arnold

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/