Vicar sought in the birthplace of Anna Chaplaincy

debbiethrower0
22 hours ago
2 min read

A flavour of the scenery in and around the market town of Alton. Hampshire

The deadline for applications to be the Vicar of Alton and surrounding villages in the benefice of the Resurrection is fast approaching- October 2. It is fifteen years since our Chaplaincy for Older People began in the area thanks to a covenant signing between local Anglicans and Methodists to collaborate more closely on various areas of ministry.

Do share this link to the advert, role description and profile which has been prepared to give candidates the best feel for just how special is the town and countryside around it. https://winchester.anglican.org/vacancy/vicar-parish-of-the-resurrection-alton/

'I know I am biased' writes Debbie Thrower, 'because I was made so welcome when I became the first Anna Chaplain there in 2010, but it really is such a friendly place with a strong heart for (and a proven record of) ecumenical cooperation.'

Debbie remains a Licensed Lay Minister in the town. Anna Chaplaincy is one of the fruits of GAP - the Greater Alton Project - which came out of that covenant signing.

'Anna Chaplaincy was nurtured in Alton and that was in large part thanks to the strength of relationships between Christians in the local churches and across denominations. That's enabled people from all generations to be loved and cared for. We hope to attract the broadest field of candidates who would like to lead us into the next part of our story.'

Debbie Thrower, Anna Chaplaincy Pioneer

The advert describes how the benefice is looking for someone to 'help lead us in the next stage of our journey, nurture our collaborative spirit; build on our strong foundations and inspire mission and ministry across both parishes.'

In turn, Alton offers 'an attractive vicarage and garden, with good schools nearby and London access; a supportive clergy and lay team; engaged congregations and dedicated church officers.'

The role description goes into further details of how the church is looking for a Vicar who will:

- Lead the Ministry team within the Benefice and create a vision for the two Parishes within the Benefice

- Take a strategic lead in Children, Youth and Families Ministry

- Develop a vision for outreach work

Applicants should:

- Be enthusiastic about their faith, with a background in parish ministry, a prayerful approach, & be bible centred and Jesus based.

- Actively share faith with others in word and deed and encourage the growth of a church that is vibrant, active, purposeful and prayerful.

- Bring a proven track record in leading large and diverse groups, who will strengthen the benefice brand. Be a team player who works as part of a collaborative team.