House for Duty Associate Priest – Families & Intergenerational Ministry

Benefice of Natland, Crosscrake, Old Hutton and New Hutton (held in plurality) Helm Mission Community

• Are you passionate about helping children, families and people
  of all ages grow in faith together?

We are seeking a prayerful and collaborative priest to join our welcoming rural benefice as a House for Duty Associate Priest with a particular focus on families and intergenerational ministry.

Situated in the beautiful South Lakeland countryside, our four parishes are part of the ecumenical Helm Mission Community and enjoy strong relationships with our local communities and three Church of England primary schools. We are blessed with existing foundations in children’s and families’ ministry and are looking for someone who will work alongside clergy, lay leaders and volunteers to nurture and develop this ministry for the future.

This is a supportive and collaborative role within an established ministry team. The postholder will share in the worshipping, pastoral and sacramental life of the benefice while helping to encourage discipleship among children, families and younger generations.

We are looking for someone who:

• Has a deep and prayerful Christian faith

• Is warm, approachable and relational

• Has a heart for children, families and intergenerational worship

• Enjoys working collaboratively with clergy and lay colleagues

• Can encourage, support and equip others in ministry

• Values sustainable and healthy patterns of ministry

• Is interested in rural ministry and community engagement

Particular areas of focus include:

• Supporting and encouraging intergenerational worship

• Strengthening relationships with local schools

• Supporting ministry with children, young people and families

• Encouraging age-appropriate pathways of discipleship

• Working alongside volunteers and lay leaders

• Helping churches become increasingly welcoming and inclusive communities for all ages

The role is offered on a House for Duty basis of two days per week plus Sundays. We are committed to realistic expectations, wellbeing and sustainable ministry.

We offer:

• Four supportive and welcoming congregations

• Strong church-school partnerships

• Existing foundations in children’s and families’ ministry

• A collaborative ministry team within the Helm Mission Community

• A well-appointed four-bedroom vicarage in a beautiful rural setting

• Easy access to the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales and excellent local amenities

This is an exciting opportunity to help nurture faith across the generations and to join us as we seek to grow younger and deepen discipleship within our communities

Closing date for Applications: 14^th September 2026 midnight

Interviews: 20^th October 2026

For an informal conversation about this role, please contact Archdeacon Vernon Ross (Tel: 07388 377105 – Email: Archdeacon.South@carlislediocese.org.uk)

For a profile and application form, please visit www.carlislediocese.org.uk/vacancies

Completed application forms should be returned to HumanResources@Carlislediocese.org.uk

Carlisle Diocese is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. All post holders and volunteers are expected to share this commitment.