Vicar of Bardsey with East Keswick 0.5 stipend (Sundays plus three weekdays)

Lambeth Palace Library; Leeds; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A local diocese in Leeds is seeking a confident clergy member to inspire the congregation and promote church growth within the community. The role emphasizes building supportive relationships with parishioners, managing community-focused activities, and engaging with lay leaders. Candidates should possess strong communication and pastoral skills to welcome newcomers, work with all age groups, and adapt to the community's needs. If you are inspired to incorporate new ideas and practices while respecting traditions, apply for this meaningful position.

Qualifications

• Strong communicator with good pastoral skills for engaging village communities.
• Ability to inspire congregation and grow faith while welcoming new members.
• Respect for traditions with adaptability for community needs.

Responsibilities

• Build on community mission to keep churches at the heart of the community.
• Support adult enquirers and develop courses for growth in discipleship.
• Encourage new visitors and create an inclusive atmosphere.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Pastoral skills

Ability to inspire

Adaptability

Conflict management

Job description

Our vision as a diocese is about confident clergy equipping confident Christians to live and tell the good news of Jesus Christ. For all our appointments we are seeking clergy who have a joyful and confident faith which has inspired a track record of church growth.

The benefice of Bardsey comprises a single parish with two churches -- All Hallows, Bardsey, and St Mary Magdalene, East Keswick -- in two attractive villages to the north east of Leeds with a total population of 3,594.

The congregations have grown in recent years, both in numbers and in service to the community. There is an enthusiasm to welcome the whole community into the life of the church.

The index of multiple deprivation ranks the parish in the top decile nationally, which brings its own challenges and opportunities. There are active and capable lay leaders who encourage an outward‑looking and inclusive ethos. There is good support for eco‑mission and for a food share project in an inner city parish.

Key Responsibilities

• Building on the community mission we have established in the past few years, so that our churches can remain at the heart of the community.
• Supporting adult enquirers and development of appropriate courses for people to grow in discipleship.
• Continuing to see the churches not just as a building for the few but as a resource for the whole community – to encourage through our doors those who do not come to church.

Qualifications & Approach

• Is able to inspire our congregation, help us grow in faith, and encourage new people into our Church life, encouraging young families whilst still having regard for the older members of our congregation.
• Approachable and a strong communicator, with good people and pastoral skills, who will be happy to work well with all aspects of our village communities.
• Respectful of our traditions and adaptable to the needs of this Church community, while also open to exploring new ideas.
• Willing to encourage and enable laity in the planning and leading of worship.
• Willing to work with us to build on and develop our mission to the local community, including our work with children and families and eco church, as we embrace change and explore new ideas and forms of worship.
• Not afraid to address and manage difficult situations that may arise, with a supportive attitude and a sense of humour.

If this is you, please take time to read the role description, brochure and parish profile.

If you would like an informal conversation regarding the vacancy, please contact Ven Paul Ayers, Archdeacon of Leeds at [e-mail].

Closing date 11 February 2026

Interview: 2 March 2026

The Diocese of Leeds is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. All post holders are expected to share this commitment. All appointments to roles undertaking regulated activity are subject to pre‑appointment checks, including references and a satisfactory Enhanced DBS Check.