Vacancy
Interim Incumbent
Congleton
Interim Incumbent – All Saints Congleton
Full‑time appointment
All Saints Congleton is seeking an interim incumbent to lead the parish through an important period of development and change.
Congleton is a vibrant market town between Manchester and Stoke, on the edge of the Cheshire Peak District. With a population of around 28,400, it is known for its festivals, flowers, creative community, and strong local identity. The town boasts over 150 community groups, a lively centre, a theatre, museum, excellent schools and a beautiful park.
The parish has grown a shared identity under the banner of All Saints, with one PCC. We are now entering a new phase: consolidating resources, shaping a major development project, and strengthening our mission and presence across the town.
The parish includes four churches. Work is underway to close three of the churchyards, and the PCC has taken the decision that worship should cease at one of the two chapels of ease, Holy Trinity Mossley. Occasional worship will continue at St John’s Buglawton which will be developed for additional missional and community use.
St Stephen’s is the main centre for Sunday worship and offers significant potential for expanded mission and outreach. St Peter’s, a much‑loved landmark, is the focus of a 10‑year development plan to enhance its use for worship and community life, supported by initial funding and a committed working group.
The parish are praying for a woman or man of God who will bring:
A deeply rooted Christian faith, shaped by Scripture and prayer, with a life guided by the Holy Spirit.
Proven leadership ability, able to unite people, navigate complexity, and build strong relationships within the church and wider community.
Experience in managing change, delivering projects to completion, and communicating with clarity, tact, and diplomacy.
The capacity to prioritise well, delegate effectively, and empower others to use their gifts in ministry.
A commitment to growing a younger church, working collaboratively with the Children & Families Missioner to strengthen mission among children, young people, and families.
Inspiration to our congregation to live out their faith in everyday life.
A demonstrable commitment to fostering a strong and effective safeguarding culture in the parish.
The post has been designated an interim one under Section 29 of the Ecclesiastical Terms of Service Measure. In relation to Congleton, the post will initially be for three years, with the expectation it will be renewed for a further two years. At the end of the five-year period, the post will either come to an end or, if the Incumbent, Parish and Diocese are all content, and parish share is being met in full then the interim arrangement will be made permanent.
Accommodation is offered in a modern Rectory located in a cul-de-sac close to Holy Trinity church, the local CofE controlled primary school and church-owned community buildings.
For a conversation about the post, please feel free to be in touch with the Archdeacon of Macclesfield, The Venerable Jane Proudfoot,
jane.proudfoot@chester.anglican.org
We will particularly welcome applications from under-represented groups.
Completed forms should be returned to: deb.toole@chester.anglican.org,
and also copied to Archdeacon of Macclesfield, jane.proudfoot@chester.anglican.org
Applicants are required to submit relevant safeguarding training certificates with their applications.
- Closing date: 21st June 2026
- Shortlisting: 25th June 2026
- Interviews: 16th July 2026
The Diocese of Chester is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We will not shortlist candidates unless they can provide an assurance of up-to-date safeguarding training and a valid DBS check for their current post.
Candidates are required to submit relevant training certificates with their applications. An Enhanced DBS Disclosure will be required for the successful candidate.