The Episcopal Diocese of New Jersey is comprised of 136 congregations in the southern 2/3 of the state of New Jersey. Both the state and the diocese are diverse, with a number of multicultural ministries and congregations, in a variety of urban, suburban and rural settings. The diocese includes congregations in commuter towns for both Philadelphia and New York City, as well as rural farming communities, the Jersey Shore, Princeton University, and more. While some congregations face challenges, others are growing. We are seeking a Canon for Vocations and Formation to support the work of the Bishop and people of the Diocese of New Jersey.
The Canon for Vocations and Formation is a key member of the missional leadership staff team. This position oversees formation work on behalf of the diocese and provides support for the New Jersey School for Ministry. In addition, the Canon supports discernment for lay and ordained ministries. Although this position takes responsibility for some tasks that have previously been carried out by other staff positions, it is a new position intended to strengthen support for individuals and congregations as we seek to grow in leadership and mission.
Responsibilities
- Working with the Bishop and Canon to the Ordinary for Mission, leads formation ministries for the Diocese of New Jersey, providing vision and direction for offerings
- Serves as the director for our diocesan School for Ministry, working with the Bishop, advisory board, and Commission on Ministry to strengthen local formation for ordination. In this capacity, supports the ordination process
- Supervises our diocesan Youth Missioner (1/2 time position) and Missioner for Lifelong Christian Formation (1/4 time) and serves as staff support for diocesan ministries related to formation, including clergy continuing education (Fresh Start, Clergy Conference, etc.)
- Works to support vocations, with the goal of expanding intentional discernment across the diocese, equipping clergy and lay members for faithful mission
- In partnership with other members of the Bishop’s staff, provides culturally appropriate resources and support for vocational discernment and formation specifically for congregations of color
- This position is open to both ordained and lay applicants
Qualifications
- 7+ years ministry experience, with relevant work in formation and discernment
- Demonstrated capacity for leadership, together with gifts for connection and facilitation
- Clarity of vocation and purpose, an established prayer life, and the ability to experience and share joy and hope in ministry
- The ability to leverage spiritual gifts in the service of God’s mission and to equip both individuals and communities to do the same
- Comfort with, and preference for, a diverse and dynamic environment where differences are valued as strengths and collaboration is prioritized
- Language ability in Spanish, French, or Haitian Creole is desirable but not required
