Church Development Worker

Epsom Methodist Church is looking for an additional full-time member of its Ministry Team. The post is suitable for either a lay or ordained person of a Christian denomination in sympathy with the Methodist Church and will offer a varied, challenging, exciting and fulfilling ministry.

Following the successful contribution of our Mission and Outreach Pastor (who left in September 2024 to take on more senior role) we wish to recruit a full time Church Development Worker to continue and enhance the work that was started. We are a lively town centre church, eager to see lives changed through the power of Christ’s love both in our congregations and the wider community.  

Your role will cover but not be restricted to:

• Developing the role of the members of our congregations and equipping more of them to help lead and participate in worship.
• Building a team to provide an inviting offer(s) for young people that will stimulate their interest in faith issues and support them in their faith journey. This will include building stronger links with the large numbers of young people who belong to the many Scout and Guide groups attached to the Church.
• Strengthening the links with the many families and children that are part of the Church’s Family Centre and test ways of offering them a relevant and attractive way to engage with worship and faith issues.
• Developing the skills of church members to start and lead new Life/small groups (including potentially new forms of church) that engage with and draw in those on the margin or outside of the Church community.
• Co-ordinating projects (such as Alpha or the Share Jesus International programme, Emmaus) that invite people from both within and outside the Church community to explore and/or deepen their Christian faith.
• Developing lay leadership within the Church
• Sharing learning on church development with other Methodist churches in the Sutton Circuit.

The ideal candidate will:

• Be someone who has energy, has initiative and is an enabler, supporter, and challenger of others.
• Possess a degree or a diploma in Theology.
• Have practical experience of leading or being involved in church development and training lay leaders.
• Have an ability to communicate effectively and to model a strong Christian example.
• Be a good team member able to work within our existing ministry and leadership team.

The appointment will initially be for a three-year term with a salary up to £45k (inc housing allowance) dependent upon experience. Applicant must be a U.K. resident or have a Tier 2 permit to work in the UK. 

Application packs are available via email from office@epsommethodistchurch.org.uk. Completed application forms and a CV (including details of previous positions, training received and qualifications held) should be submitted either via by email to office@epsommethodistchurch.org.uk or by post to Epsom Methodist Church, Ashley Road, Epsom, Surrey, KT18 5AQ.

Closing date for applications: 5pm Wednesday 12th February 2025. Interviews on Tuesday 25th February 2025