The St John's Chaplaincy is situated in the heart of Casablanca, the largest city in Morocco, with a population of roughly five million inhabitants. The state religion of Morocco is Islam and the most common languages spoken are Moroccan Arabic and French. The number of those who use English as a common language in Casablanca is fairly small, and is made up of primarily Americans, British, Europeans, Asians, Africans and others from various corners of the globe. However, the number of Moroccans who speak English is growing rapidly. There are several British and American primary and secondary schools using English as the language of instruction, along with a British university in Casablanca. In addition, there are countless language schools teaching English to children and professionals.

Morocco has one of the longest reigning monarchies, which has been in place for over 600 years. This has led to stability but has historically hindered reform. Since the advent of King Mohammed VI in 1999, there have been numerous reforms and many western nations consider Morocco to be one of the top Arab countries seeking democracy. However, the Muslim fundamentalists have made inroads into the poor sectors of society and there is a philosophical battle underway for the future of the country. Morocco managed to escape most of the conflict during “The Arab Spring” which resulted in regime change in several countries of North Africa and the Middle East. King Mohammed VI was pro-active in trying to implement democratic and economic reforms, and since that time Morocco has enjoyed considerable economic growth and stability. Though political tensions between Morocco and Algeria continue to exist, there are many companies who operate in both nations and find profitable relationships across the borders.

The congregation of St John's is made up of all age groups and nationalities. This can be seen on St. John’s electoral roll with 38 members coming from Sub-Sahara Africa, the United States the Philippines, the UK, and Canada. St. John’s serves a diverse community primarily from the broad groups of foreigners living in Casablanca – Expats living/ working in Morocco and subSaharan African immigrants As a result, the church community tends to be somewhat transient. However, there are still many members living permanently in Casablanca that have provided a solid consistency to the congregation. Each Sunday, approximately 90 adults attend the English service at 10:00AM, while about 15 children attend Sunday School. Services include Holy Communion, Morning Prayer, Prayer & Praise. Seasonal services such as Easter and Christmas carols are also celebrated. Apart from the regular services, St. John’s also conducts baptisms, funerals, confirmations, and blessing of marriages/ weddings. All services take place in a Church of England church building, which was built in 1906 and has a capacity of over 150 persons.

General to role:

To fulfil the calling & responsibilities of the clergy as described in the Canons, the Ordinal, the Code of Professional Conduct for the Clergy, and other relevant legislation. To collaborate with the Bishops, Archdeacon, Area Dean and any ordained and lay colleagues in any initiative within the Diocese, Archdeaconry and Deanery. To develop the local chaplaincy’s mission. To ensure the provision of a high standard of worship, preaching and pastoral care.

Roles, tasks, challenges, committees specific to this post:

a. To live an exemplary life, worthy of Christ and his body.

b. To conduct Anglican services in the evangelical tradition, but which are inclusive to the whole spectrum of the Anglican Communion.

c. To ensure that Sunday School is provided for the children.

d. To oversee small group Bible studies and prayer meetings.

e. To ensure that all activities and meetings taking place in the chaplaincy premises are in conformity with Anglican beliefs and practices.

f. To preside over the meetings of the PCC (usually 10 times per year) and the AGM.

g. To provide counseling and assistance to church members (and others as possible).

h. To perform pastoral duties, visiting the sick, etc.

i. To offer charitable assistance on behalf of the church.

j. To administer the benevolent fund.

k. To contact English speaking residents and to welcome them into the church.

l. To visit English speaking prisoners in Casablanca, and in other cities as possible.

m. To build positive channels with other Christian denominations.

n. To attend quarterly meetings of the Council of Churches.

o. To represent the church to the Moroccan authorities