The Diocese of Bath ad Wells is seeking a new Suffragan Bishop of Taunton.
The role of the Bishop of Taunton
The new Bishop of Taunton will play an essential role in enabling the implementation of our vision. They will have defined responsibility for taking forward a number of key and clearly delineated areas of activity.
Purpose
To offer enabling, effective, inspiring and transformational episcopal leadership in the Diocese of Bath and Wells in close collaboration and partnership with the Bishop of Bath and Wells and working as an integral part of the Bishop’s Staff team.
Priorities of role
- To be alongside the Bishop of Bath and Wells, sharing in his ministry as chief pastor of our diocese.
- To share in leading mission and ministry across our diocese through supporting the implementation of our strategic vision in the parishes, chaplaincies and schools of Bath and Wells.
Main responsibilities
Providing leadership
The Bishop of Taunton will be an effective and visible leader, as well as a colleague and critical friend to the Bishop of Bath and Wells. They will play a full part in the collegial life of the Bishop’s Staff team, sharing in the leadership, oversight and development of the diocese.
They will engage effectively with leaders, both lay and ordained, across the diocese, offering ministry that supports the life and mission of churches through the pastoral care of clergy and other ministers. They will participate in appointments and licensings, conduct of Benefice Visits and Ministerial Development Reviews. They will have a love for the people to whom they are sent and will not take themselves too seriously. They will be approachable and delight in being accessible to all.
Our new bishop will be a confident, joyful inspiring presence in the public square. They will take up opportunities that the Church in Somerset still has to be a convener and trusted partner in seeking the common good. They will be confident to speak up for the Good News of Jesus Christ in different settings, taking opportunities as those arise.
Notable dates
Interviews
Interviews are planned to take place on 30/31 July in Bath and Wells.
Eligibility & pre-employment enquiries
The nominated candidates will need to have the right to live and work in the United Kingdom. They will need to complete an Enhanced DBS check and a pre-appointment occupational health clearance.