INCUMBENT: The Parish of The Good Shepherd
Ashton-under-Lyne

Do you relish a new challenge?
Then join our five urban-church benefice, along with five good Church of England primary schools; while working with our committed present team members of ordained and laity in mutuality.
In return we offer:

• OPPORTUNITY- Churches featuring all ages and with a range of opportunities.
• SUPPORT - Plenty of support with clergy colleagues, lay leadership and admin assistance.
• VALUE - An understanding, supportive environment that values personal well-being, and the need for rest and retreat for everyone.
• CHALLENGE - A local area with a great deal to offer, but with key challenges or mission and ministry.

Enquirers are welcome to speak to the Ven. David Sharples, Archdeacon of Rochdale, on 07909 231278 for further information about this post and to request an application pack.

General

1. To exercise the cure of souls shared with the bishop in these parishes in collaboration with your colleagues.
2. To have regard to the calling and responsibilities of the clergy as described in the Canons, the Ordinal, the Code of Professional Conduct for the Clergy and other relevant legislation.
3. To work to advance the Kingdom of God through servant leadership, collaboration and example, and with particular regard to the current diocesan mission priorities:
   1. for growing churches;
   2. for increasing giving;
   3. for serving the wider community (the Church at the heart of the community);
   4. for nurturing vocations;
   5. To share in the wider work of the mission cluster, deanery and diocese as appropriate, for the building up of the whole Body of Christ.

Specific

1. To continue to develop links with our partners in the Mission Community (6).
2. To support and promote the work with Children and Young People, building on the ministry with schools, community groups and charities, civic institutions and uniformed organisations.
3. To offer leadership in developing family/children’s worship relevant to our children’s groups and diverse communities.
4. Strongly encourage lay participation and discipleship.
5. Continue to support the churches in their discernment about the future configuration of current buildings.

We are looking for an Incumbent with following qualities:

• INSPIRING - The ability to inspire people and bring enthusiasm for new patterns of contemporary worship affirming everyday faith.
• CARING - A visible leader with the integrity to lead and model through compassion and care within our congregation and the wider parish community.
• EMPOWERING - Working with us to develop a leadership team able to serve and develop our vision to reach our community with the Gospel and the love of God.
• COLLABORATIVELY MISSION FOCUSED - The passion for serving in a diverse community, sustained by a deep Christian faith, supporting the whole church to hear the call of God and to nurture our spiritual growth and discipleship.
• EMBRACING CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE - A willingness to develop ministry with children and young people and encourage them to take a full part in our church life.

The Good Shepherd team ministry is a group of committed people who have responded to the love of Jesus Christ and are passionate about sharing the good news of the Gospel in their wider diverse and inclusive community.