Rector, Holkham Benefice

Diocese of Norwich; Norwich; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A community-focused church benefice in Norwich is seeking a full-time priest to lead worship and engage with the community. This role involves encouraging a prayerful and inclusive atmosphere, working collaboratively within the church and with local families and schools. Ideal candidates should demonstrate a secure, joyful faith and strong communication skills. The position offers a salary of £28,000 – £30,000 based on experience and operates Monday to Friday.

Qualifications

• Desire to see lives transformed by Christ.
• Secure, joyful, and active faith with deep spirituality.
• Ability to engage with schools and focus on families.

Responsibilities

• Encourage a prayerful, inclusive, and outward-facing community.
• Develop mission for holiday makers and visitors.
• Work collegiately with ecumenical partners.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Collaborative work

Pastoral care

Flexibility in worship styles

Inclusion and justice commitment

Education

Ordained priest in the Church of England

Job description

A Coastal Benefice with Heart, Heritage and Hope

The Holkham benefice seeks a full-time priest with a secure and active faith to lead our churches with joy, commitment and a willingness to engage with all.

The benefice is located on the stunning North Norfolk coast and encompasses the historic family estate of Holkham, the vibrant seaside town of Wells-next-the-sea and the two rural villages of Wighton and Warham.

The Vicarage is well placed in the town of Wells and is a modern, spacious 5-bedroom home.

The benefice seeks a priest who will

• Encourage us to live out our vision of being a prayerful, inclusive and outward facing community across the benefice
• Further develop our welcome and mission to holiday makers and visitors to the area with seasonal services through the rhythms of the agricultural year and our coastal communities
• Offer variety in worship, from the traditional to the informal
• Seek to develop our links with families and schools through our existing outreach and discern further opportunities to build a new worshipping community which is younger and more diverse
• Work collegiately with our ecumenical partners in Churches Together in Wells and District
• Develop sustainable provision for pastoral care
• Provide opportunities for growth in faith through enquirers courses and study groups

Key characteristics of post holder:

• an ordained priest in the Church of England, or a Church in communion with the Church of England with a desire to see lives transformed by Christ
• A secure, joyful, and active faith, combining deep spirituality with practical leadership.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively.
• A flexible approach to different styles of worship.
• A commitment to inclusion, justice, and care for the environment.
• A pastoral heart, ensuring safety and well-being across the Benefice.
• Willingness to engage with schools and the wider community, with a focus on children and families.
• Appreciation of the many volunteers from within and beyond our congregations who support our churches.
• Above all kindness, a smile and a sense of humour.

More information can be found in the profile and Diocesan notes.

If you would like an informal conversation about this post, please be in touch with the Archdeacon of Lynn, The Ven. Catherine Dobson on 01362 709200 or email [e-mail]

Please submit your Application and Confidential Declaration Form by 9.00am on Friday 7 th January 2026 to Mrs Ann Whittet (PA to the Bishop of Lynn and Archdeacon of Lynn) by email to [e-mail] with a hard copy in the post to: The Bishop’s Office, Commercial Road, Dereham NR19 1AE

Closing date: 9:00 am Wednesday 7 January 2026

Salary: £28,000 – £30,000 (dependant on experience and competence)

40 hours per week (Monday to Friday 08:00 - 16.

Archdeaconry of Lynn, Current Clergy Vacancies

Diocese of Norwich