Liverpool Hope University enjoys a unique status as the only fully ecumenical university in Europe.  Built on foundations laid by the Church of England and the Roman Catholic Church in the nineteenth century, the university today seeks to be a beacon of ecumenism in practice.  Central to its mission and values is the support offered to students and staff through its ecumenical Chaplaincy.

The University is now seeking to appoint a full-time Roman Catholic Lay Chaplain to join this team.  The successful candidate will be a practising Roman Catholic with a strong commitment to the mission and life of the Catholic Church, who will help nurture and support the Catholic community within the University.  They will provide pastoral care, spiritual accompaniment and opportunities for prayer, reflection and faith development, as well as social justice activities, ensuring that the distinctive gifts and insights of the Catholic tradition are accessible to students and staff.

Working collaboratively with the Anglican Chaplain and the Dean of Students, as well as colleagues and partners from other faiths, the postholder will contribute to the development of a vibrant ecumenical Chaplaincy that serves the whole University community.  They will support the University’s Catholic character and mission, foster a sense of belonging among Catholic students and staff, and build effective relationships with local parishes, diocesan partners and Catholic organisations.

The successful candidate will possess a strong understanding of Catholic theology, spirituality and social teaching, together with experience of pastoral ministry, chaplaincy, faith formation or community engagement.  They will demonstrate a commitment to ecumenical dialogue and collaboration, characterised by openness to the theological perspectives of others, a willingness to contribute to ecumenical worship and events, and a pastoral approach that is welcoming, inclusive and able to work effectively with people of all faiths and none.

The post is permanent, subject to the normal probationary period of twelve months.

We recruit staff nationally and internationally as we seek out the best to help build Hope for the future.  If you join us you will be doing so at an exciting and challenging time as we work to build a liberal arts inspired university of distinction in the UK.  If you have the drive and commitment to assist in this task, we would be delighted to hear from you.