Rector of Bodiam and Ewhurst

Lambeth Palace Library; Ewhurst Green, Snagshall; On-site; GBP 100,000 - GBP 125,000; Part time

Job summary

A local religious organization is seeking a pastoral priest for the Incumbent position in East Sussex, supporting two parishes with a combined population of 1668. This House for Duty role requires a commitment of 2.5 days a week, including Sundays, with an emphasis on community engagement and outreach. Ideal candidates will be committed to community life and open to flexible working arrangements. The position offers a supportive environment within beautiful rural settings.

Qualifications

• Pastoral priest who enjoys and is committed to community life in villages and schools.

Responsibilities

• Provide pastoral support in Ewhurst and Bodiam.
• Engage in community and outreach activities.
• Worship in the central tradition of the Church of England.

Job description

Incumbent of Bodiam and Ewhurst (HfD 2.5)

We are two welcoming and friendly parishes offering warmth, support, energy, care, interest and humour from united churchwardens, PCC’s and congregations.

The Bishop of Chichester and All Souls College, Oxford (presenting patron) are seeking an Incumbent for these two parishes, currently held in plurality (combined pop. 1668).

Situated in a beautiful area of rural East Sussex, with good train links to London, and a steam heritage railway, the parishes comprise three churches: St James the Great, Ewhurst Green, situated at the heart of its village in which the modern four-bedroom Rectory with wonderful views is also located: St Giles, Bodiam, a smaller village with its Church primary school, and the mission church of St Mark, Staplecross.

This is a House for Duty post. The office holder is expected to give the equivalent of 2.5 days per week, including all or part of Sunday; however, in this circumstance the PCC and Diocese would be happy to discuss flexible ways of fulfilling this commitment.

Worship is in the central tradition of the Church of England, and there is strong lay support possibly including administration.

The parishes are seeking a pastoral priest who will enjoy and be committed to community life in the villages and their schools, and eager to make the most of opportunities for outreach, growth and wider regeneration.

For further information, please contact the Archdeacon of Hastings, The Ven Russell Dewhurst at [e-mail]

Closing date: 12th April 2026

Interview date: 6th May 2026

The Diocese of Chichester 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 further information, please read our full safeguarding policy.

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Please note: we reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role.