Bewsborough Parish, on the edge of Dover and the Kent Downs, is seeking a prayerful, collaborative and mission-minded priest to lead us into our next chapter. This is a parish that has rediscovered confidence in recent years. Strong relationships with schools, creative community initiatives and a growing culture of lay ministry have helped us move from managing decline to exploring new possibilities for growth. Crucially, this momentum has continued throughout the vacancy.
We are a single parish comprising six churches serving a population of more than 14,000 across villages, countryside and the expanding community of Whitfield. Over the coming years Whitfield is expected to grow significantly, creating a remarkable mission opportunity for a church that wants to be present at the heart of a developing community.
We are looking for someone who:
- Has a deep and compelling faith in Jesus Christ.
- Can inspire others while enabling and developing lay ministry.
- Values schools ministry and community engagement.
- Is comfortable building partnerships beyond the church.
- Enjoys working collaboratively with colleagues.
- Has the vision and energy to help us engage a rapidly growing population.
- Can combine pastoral care with a confident missionary outlook.
We offer:
- A parish that believes God has more in store for it.
- Strong and supportive churchwardens, PCC and ministry team.
- Established community initiatives with further scope for growth.
- Welcoming and engaged schools.
- A significant mission opportunity in Whitfield.
- A modern four-bedroom rectory in Whitfield.
- Supportive colleagues across Dover Deanery and the Diocese of Canterbury.
Closing Date: 15 October 2026
Interview Date: 10 November 2026
The priest appointed will serve as an office holder under Common Tenure, and the Ecclesiastical Offices (Terms of Service) Regulations will apply.