The Benefice
supports collaborative ministry and encourages lay participation
in all worship. There is strong support for the incumbent,
whom we see as a leader, and there are many opportunities
to build and strengthen further spiritual growth. We have
good links with other organizations within the villages
and surrounding area and we have a policy of having our
church buildings accessible.
Both parishes
strive hard to move our mission into the village communities
and beyond.
Music is an important
part of our worship and we maintain a good tradition of
hymn singing and sung services. Both BCP and Common Worship
services are used in the Benefice and a weekly Eucharist
is held in one of the churches. A wide variety of services
are held including Morning and Evening Prayer, Worship and
Family services and Healing services. A weekly Home Communion
is held in various homes in Acton.
Both churches
are of Mediæval origin and are important landmarks
in this beautiful part of East Anglia. The communities are
mainly traditional in their outlook. They are concerned
about their heritage and appreciate the significance of
the Church and its mission within the community.
Generally the
finances of the Benefice are sound and are supported by
continuing fundraising and grant seeking which is necessary
in maintaining the historic buildings, and to pay the parish
share. There is a lot of volunteer help in the community
by those who give of their time and expertise to help in
many ways.
We benefit from
the services of a passionate and dedicated OLM.
The Wardens of
the both PCCs within the Benefice meet regularly to foster
and encourage close working relationships and exchange of
ideas for mutual support and fellowship. There is also a
monthly meeting of the Ministry Team consisting of our NSM,
Lay Reader, Lay Elders, Lay Pastor, Reader in Training and
Wardens to build our worship and outreach.
This post is
full time for Acton and Gt. Waldingfield, working closely
with the Deanery and Diocese towards a possible Minster
model.
There is an attractive modern vicarage in Acton, adjacent
to the Church set in a moderately sized and manageable garden.
We hope
that you will want to join us and walk alongside us in our
spiritual journey.