Role: Providing advice and support to Bishops, Archdeacons and parishes in all matters relating to pastoral reorganisation and closed churches.
To work closely with the three Archdeaconry Mission and
Pastoral Sub-Committees which, together, form the Diocesan
Mission and Pastoral Committee.
To be the lead officer servicing these committees providing the appropriate level of advice, direction and information and implementing the decisions of the committees.
Responsibility: To the Diocesan Secretary
To the Diocesan Secretary Accountability:
Key Relationships: Bishop and Archdeacons, AMPC and DMPC members, Diocesan
Secretary and other Diocesan Heads of Department, namely the DAC
Secretary and Church Buildings Team.
Line manager to the Pastoral and Stipends Administrator.
1.
To provide advice and support to Bishops, Archdeacons and parishes in all matters relating to pastoral reorganisation.
2.
To prepare and distribute agendas, papers and minutes for the Diocesan Mission and
Pastoral Committee and the three sub-committees, namely, the three Archidiaconal
Mission and Pastoral Committees.
3.
To assist in the preparation of the Diocesan Mission and Pastoral Committee’s annual report to the Church Commissioners and presentation to the diocesan synod.
4.
To liaise and consult with the Diocesan Registrar concerning proposed pastoral reorganisation and church closure, the re-licensing of clergy following the making of a
Pastoral Scheme, suspension of presentation procedures and other relevant matters.
5.
To liaise and consult with the Church Commissioners concerning proposed pastoral reorganisations and church closure.
6.
To prepare pastoral proposals and to be responsible for discharging the required consultation processes outlined in the Mission and Pastoral Measure 2011.
7.
To be responsible for the carrying out of suspension of presentation procedures including the consultation process and notification to the Diocesan Registry.
8.
To advise parishes and clergy, in consultation with the Diocesan Registrar and the
Archdeacons, on the preparation of District Church Council Schemes.
9.
To carry out any other duties falling to the Pastoral Secretary under the Mission and
Pastoral Measure 2011 and accompanying Code of Practice.
10.
To support the development of mission communities, contributing ideas, advice and practical support as and when required.
Other
11.
To maintain confidentiality at all times
12.
To work with courtesy, sensitivity, tact, and flexibility
13.
To encourage good relationships with immediate colleagues, other staff, volunteers external contacts
14.
To participate actively in supervisory and appraisal processes
15.
To participate and in appropriate professional development
16.
To be aware of and act in accordance with, Health and Safety policy
17.
To be aware of and act in accordance with, Equal Opportunities policy
18.
To be aware of and act in accordance with Data Protection legislation and procedures
19.
To be aware of and act in accordance with Diocesan Financial processes
20.
Any other tasks that may be added to the description from time to time
Experience and skills
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with a high level of clarity and precision
Experience of servicing committees, including the preparation of agendas and minute taking
Experience of researching and interpreting complex documents
An ability to work creatively to solve problems
An ability to assimilate new tasks and fresh information, and to adapt and develop processes
An ability to work efficiently and accurately under pressure, with careful attention to detail
IT literate with experience of the full range of Microsoft Office
Attributes and aptitudes
An ability to relate well to a wide range of people and to show pastoral sensitivity
Enthusiastic and approachable manner
Flexible and co-operative team worker
Empathy with the mission and values of the Church of England
Degree or relevant professional qualification
An understanding of Church of England structures
A driving licence and access to a vehicle for work use
Experience of liaising with multiple stakeholders and in providing accurate advice
Experience of working with legal documents