Associate Vicar at Chanctonbury with particular responsibility for Washington church

The Parish of Chanctonbury, has a rooted foundation of Word and Spirit ministry, and is looking for a full-time Associate Vicar to support the Rector by leading a fresh season of mission and multi-generational growth in one of the churches in the parish.

Chanctonbury is a vibrant parish that has been blessed with continuous growth over the past 12 years. Around four hundred and fifty people worship in four congregations across three locations on Sundays. The parish is situated just north of the South Downs, within the Deanery of Storrington. The Bishop of Chichester and the Incumbent seek to appoint an Associate Vicar who will offer a mission-oriented, evangelistic, pastoral and liturgical ministry, as we seek to know, love and follow Jesus. 

We are praying for a priest who will:

Support the Rector by overseeing and leading a fresh season of mission in Washington, breaking new ground amongst children and families, as part of our long-term vision of multi-generational churches. The new Associate Vicar will oversee the two Washington Sunday congregations; lead the pastoral, sacramental and occasional offices of the Washington congregations and villagers, including leading the clergy involvement within the church school. Being part of the Senior Leadership Team of Chanctonbury, the new AV will ideally carry a central brief for the discipleship culture of the church as a whole across all congregations. We are looking for a:

• Proven change leader – Able to evidence how they have led teams through transition, renewal, conflict or growth, and what changed as a result.
• Strong team operator – Effective both in authority and under authority; someone who can build trust, clarity and unity.
• Mission Enabler – Experienced in the overseeing, developing and equipping of voluntary teams, increasing shared ownership and effectiveness rather than doing everything personally.
• Spiritually grounded and Spirit-led – Deeply rooted in Scripture, prayerful, and dependent on the Holy Spirit in decision-making and leadership. Strong disciple-maker, and able to equip others in disciple-making.
• Integrity under pressure – Character tested in real situations: consistent, accountable, devoted to pursuing personal holiness, and trustworthy. 
• Emotionally intelligent – Self-aware, relationally mature, able to navigate conflict and maintain healthy relationships, especially during change.

We offer:

• A generous, wholehearted, and hospitable church family with a keenness to reach out in love and service to the wider community.
• Strong and established links with Washington Church of England primary school. 
• Committed volunteers, a supportive and encouraging wider staff team to serve alongside, and diligent admin support.

See the Role Description below. 

Please apply through Pathways by clicking on this link: https://www.cofepathways.org/members/modules/job/detail.php?record=9918

Housing to be provided through a Diocesan purchase. 

Closing date: Sunday 12 April 2026

Formal Interviews: 6 May 2026

Trainee Kids and Youth Workers

More information coming soon.