We are looking for a new warden, an Anglican Priest, to lead the Pilsdon Community in rural Dorset. Established in 1958, Pilsdon is a unique intentional Christian community, offering a place of safety for those who live on the margins or who may be recovering from addiction or mental illness. It aims to be a place where people can rebuild their lives by sharing in a communal life with others. Pilsdon is an inspiring place to be a servant-hearted priest, where you will be alive and awake to the most vulnerable realities of being human. You will be a spiritually mature and nurturing presence; able to honour this community’s vision, the people who come to share this life with us, and the natural world we live in. Could this be something that God is calling you to?
The approach at Pilsdon is always radically inclusive and non-judgmental with a real focus on everyone’s potential. We seek to prioritise social, economic and ecological justice as we learn how to live alongside each other and care for the land and animals here. It is a place where people can find health restored, and a renewed sense of dignity and resilience.
The Warden is responsible for the management of the community, and is able to hold firm boundaries when it comes to keeping the few rules we have, a dry and drug free safe place where an inherent respect for everyone is fundamental. Able to build trust with others and have a willingness and humility to learn from those who have made their home here.
Built on monastic and contemplative practices, we share a seasonal rhythm of life which holds us as we engage with our inner work; a work essential to the Warden as they use their wisdom and experience to navigate the complexity and challenges of community life with its diverse pastoral needs. The Warden will be choosing to enter into this life for their own ongoing spiritual transformation.
The Warden will be able to communicate the prophetic nature of living this countercultural life to the wider Church, build on partnerships with local agencies, and continue to grow the valuable connections with the extended family of Pilsdon supporters.
If you feel called to apply please go to our website for more details and an application form www.pilsdon.org.uk/warden
Closing date: 23 August
Interviews: September
We really look forward to meeting with you and welcoming you to Pilsdon; to come and see this special place that has brought life to so many of us.