The role of Rector of the benefice of Whittlesey, Pondersbridge and Coates is an opportunity to lead 4 diverse but interconnected churches with a desire to grow in mission and grace. We serve 18000 people in this fenland town and surrounding communities within 4 miles of Peterborough.
Our population is growing younger as new housing brings new people to enrich our fenland communities.
Our churches have been a benefice for decades and are held in high regard in this community. Recent leadership has taken us into a season of growth and transformation. Though we still face the challenges of buildings that need adapting and finding a strategy that enables all to flourish in diversity.
Our Missional challenges and opportunities
1. Continuing to grow younger and more diverse - We have grown younger over the last few years. We want to maintain this momentum: growing our ministry to baptism families, enlarging Alpha, developing local teams and leaders. Our town is growing fast, and we want to attract and engage new and existing residents.
2. Growing Missional Disciples - We see disciples growing in many different ways: through bible studies in Lent & Advent, LYCIG (leading your church into growth), a weekly bible study group, prayer triplets, mid-week services, Men’s ministry, Community breakfast, Women’s breakfast, Worship Wednesdays.
3. Rebuilding a sense of team - We hope that our next incumbent will continue to grow the diversity of mission and worship that is needed to share the gospel with the whole of our community.
4. Renewing buildings for mission - We have big plans for developing 3 of our 4 church buildings and renewing our hall.
We are looking for these qualities in our next incumbent:
Skills:
5. Team Builder and enabler of others
6. Leader of missional engagement with the community
7. Pastorally Sensitive
8. Able to train a curate
9. A car driver
Character:
10. Spiritual Depth
11. Energy and Enthusiasm
12. Hospitable faith
13. A good sense of humour
Our diocese and deanery offers:
14. excellent, spacious modern rectory in quiet street
15. friendly supportive chapter colleagues
16. well funded CMD and support for clergy and their families
17. generous and pastoral senior leadership
Applications and