The Benefices of Gravenhurst, Shillington and Stondon, and Arlesey with Astwick are part of the Diocese of St Albans and are enormously valued and valuable members of the Diocesan family. You will be in charge of both benefices working as one unit.

This is an opportunity to lead these two benefices as they come together in a new partnership for ministry and mission. In this responsibility you will not be alone but will be supported by a ‘Reader in Charge’ of Stondon who will have day to day oversight and leadership of the congregation, a neighboring Incumbent who will be appointed as an Associate Priest to the Benefice of Shillington and Stondon, a local retired priest who takes a monthly service at Astwick, and a Lay Leader of Worship at Arlesey. There is the potential to build a strong and effective team that models something new.

As indicated in the profile there is a desire to move forward and there are many opportunities to reach out to these varied communities. It can be an exciting post for the right person.

You will be in charge of both benefices working as one unit. We pray for someone who is:

• a committed, enthusiastic and compassionate person of vision and prayer with a pastoral heart
• a charismatic, caring leader, and communicator with a sense of humour
• has technological skills, is an effective networker and enabler, and can demonstrate ability to forge community links
• resilient, caring and sociable, collaborative, and understands the challenge of combined rural ministry with new housing development
• a preacher with sensitivity and understanding, communicating the Gospel in an inclusive and engaging style to all ages.
• has their own transport.

In return we offer

• A dedicated congregation who are ready to welcome you.
• A core of committed volunteers, who work together to open up the churches to the people of the parish.
• Great potential for growth, especially with future developments.
• A genuine readiness to work together

For further information, please contact the Archdeacon of Bedford archdbedpa@stalbans.anglican.org or 01727 818 167

Closing date for applications: 9am on Tuesday 3rd October 2023

Interview date: 19th October 2023

Please note that applications must be made using the application form supplied by the Archdeacon's office and submissions made online through this platform will not be accepted.