We are seeking a dynamic and visionary Priest鈥慽n鈥慍harge to lead and inspire ministry across the Benefices of West Sheppey and Eastchurch with Leysdown & Harty. This is a remarkable opportunity for a priest with strong pastoral instincts, confident leadership, and a heart for mission to help shape a fresh chapter of ministry on the Isle of Sheppey.
You will bring warmth, creativity, and spiritual depth - supporting our churches with compassionate pastoral care, guiding and galvanising a new ministry team of three full鈥憈ime priests alongside gifted lay ministers, and nurturing innovative missional initiatives that will bless our communities and extend the reach of the Gospel across the island and beyond.
This is a pivotal moment for mission and ministry on Sheppey. The newly formed Isle of Sheppey Group Ministry, bringing together the Benefice of West Sheppey and the Benefice of Eastchurch with Leysdown & Harty, offers a genuine opportunity for collaborative working, shared vision, and renewed energy. With both benefices now vacant, we are poised to build something new - rooted in faith, partnership, creativity, and hope.
Alongside the Priest鈥慽n鈥慍harge appointment, we are also recruiting two full鈥憈ime Associate Priests who will work together as a united team serving the whole island. You will have a key role in shaping how this ministry grows - working with our PCCs to discern the most life鈥慻iving and effective structures for mission and ministry into the future.
If you are excited by the prospect of leading a team, nurturing discipleship, strengthening worshipping communities, and exploring God鈥慻iven opportunities in a diverse coastal context, we would love to hear from you.
Closing date: 22 March 2026
Interviews: 23 April 2026
If you would like more information or an informal discussion with the Archdeacon of Maidstone, please email archdeacon.maidstone@diocant.org