Rector, Glaven Valley benefice

The Glaven Valley benefice is a group of five parishes serving the villages of Blakeney, Cley, Wiveton, Glandford and Letheringsett in the beautiful countryside of the North Norfolk coast, designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

 The area attracts many visitors, second home-owners and holiday makers alike. The parishes work closely and cooperatively together, and there is a strong sense of fellowship, friendship, and support across the benefice.  

Benefice services offer various styles of worship, along with many groups, activities and events. Ministry here is both busy and rewarding, with a ministry team, benefice office and a paid administrator.

 Further information about the benefice can be found at https://glavenvalleychurches.org.uk/ 

The churches are seeking a priest who 

•    Led by the Holy Spirit, will help us through prayer, preaching, teaching and example to deepen faith in Jesus Christ and their relationship with him

•    As a leader, brings love, passion, approachability and a sense of joy and purpose to the role

•    Will help us develop fresh ways of communicating the gospel in this rural Benefice to reach more people across the wider community

•    As a facilitator, will encourage us to use our gifts and talents through the work of the Holy Spirit

•    Will use Alpha and other outreach opportunities to bring the Good News of Jesus to people in a relevant way

•    Will seize the opportunity for mission amongst both our local residents and our holiday visitors

•    Respects the diversity of worship styles from the traditional to the informal

•    Is pastorally sensitive and caring, with a special concern for the sick and those in distress

•    Will build and further enhance our good links with the local Church of England school and families

•    Will continue to develop the strong co-operation and partnership that exists between the five churches

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 dynamic, passionate and compassionate leader 

–    a heart for gospel-based outreach and pastoral care

–    an inspiring preacher and teacher

–    able to relate to all ages, from the youngest to the oldest

–    keen to work with children and families through the local school

–    a love and care for the community

The benefice offers loving, prayerful and practical support from a very willing church membership, the ministry of committed retired clergy and licensed lay ministers, excellent administrative support, and the support of many people who lead courses and small groups including Alpha, The Bible course, Christianity Explored, Women’s Bible Study group.

The Rectory is situated in Blakeney and is an attractive, modern, well designed, four bedroomed house with solar panels and an air-source heat pump.

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 archdeacon.lynn@dioceseofnorwich.org