Rector

Lambeth Palace Library; England; On-site; GBP 100,000 - GBP 125,000; Part time

Job summary

A historic community church in the United Kingdom seeks a part-time Rector to enrich ministries and deepen connections with local families and schools. Ideal candidates will have strong pastoral care skills and inspire volunteers. The position offers a beautiful setting, a four-bedroom Rectory, and active outreach opportunities. This role is perfect for someone with creativity and excellent communication skills who values collaboration and community support.

Benefits

Beautiful historic setting

Active outreach programmes

Four-bedroom Rectory

Strong volunteer support

Good community support

Qualifications

• Strong pastoral care skills and a passion for community outreach.
• Values schools ministry and serves as Foundation Governor.
• Can inspire and lead volunteers in growing ministries.

Responsibilities

• Help grow thriving community ministries.
• Engage families, schools, and the village community.
• Collaborate with full PCC and volunteer teams.

Skills

Pastoral care skills

Community outreach

Leading Acts of Worship

Inspiring and leading volunteers

Creativity and vision

Excellent communication skills

Job description

Role Overview

Join our vibrant 'church in the woods' - a historic gem serving a close-knit village community. We're looking for a part-time Rector (0.5 FTE) to help us grow our thriving community ministries and deepen our connections with families, schools, and the wider village.

St Edmund King & Martyr is a Grade 1 listed 11th century church in West Kingsdown, Kent - a semi-rural village 4.5 miles from Swanley station with excellent London links and close to Brands Hatch.

We Are Looking for Someone Who

• Has strong pastoral care skills and a passion for community outreach
• Values schools ministry - leading Acts of Worship and serving as Foundation Governor
• Can inspire and lead volunteers in our growing ministries
• Brings creativity and vision, particularly for engaging 30–50 year olds
• Enjoys collaborative ministry with our full PCC and dedicated volunteer teams
• Has excellent communication skills across all ages and backgrounds.

What We Offer

• A beautiful historic setting in ancient woodland with modern facilities
• Active outreach programmes with room to grow and develop new initiatives
• A four-bedroom Rectory with well-maintained garden
• Strong Volunteer support and a committed congregation
• Good community support and working relationships with village organizations

To learn more about the role, our church life and the community we serve, please read our Parish Profile, which can be downloaded from the Parish Profile page in the Diocesan website: rochester.anglican.org/xdb/vacancies

Applications via Pathways: cofePathways.org

If you wish for an informal chat with Archdeacon Nick Cornell before applying, please email the EA to the Archdeacon: [e-mail]

Closing date for applications: 19 March 2026

Tour and interview date: 23 April 2026