We are sorry to report that we received no applications for this role by the time of the closing date on 10 October. This was disappointing news. 

Following a meeting with the Assistant Archdeacon, Revd Jane Curtis, our Rural Dean, Clifford Stride, and members of the interview panel, we do have a plan for going forward. The Bishop and Archdeacon were very impressed with the profile which we had prepared. We are going to look at reviewing the wording around the “interim” nature of the post to make it clear that this would become a permanent role after review. It is because this is a new role with a different focus from before, that it is to be reviewed after a few years.

The role will continue to be advertised on the Diocese website, and also on our own websites, with the profile available to view. This means that if anyone is interested in the role and wants to apply, they may do so at any time. Previous experience in the local area has shown that sometimes candidates become available after the closing date, so applications outside the usual schedule are still welcome.

If we haven’t received any suitable applications in this way, then we will re-advertise in the New Year and an interview date has been set for the spring.

Please bear in mind that it is a challenge appointing clergy at the moment, due to a rise in the numbers of clergy retiring, and not so many candidates coming forward for ordination or curates becoming ready to take on Incumbent roles.

Please continue to pray for this appointment using our vacancy prayer; and also for those bearing extra responsibilities at this time; for our Ministry Team, churchwardens and PCCs.