Seeking a new Rector

The Archbishop of Perth invites expressions of interest for the position of Rector of the Anglican Parish of Carine-Duncraig.

Carine and Duncraig are in the northern suburbs of Perth, just five minutes’ drive from the beach. Within a short drive to the Perth CBD, we are primarily a residential area with a population of around 16,000 people. The area is served by four public primary schools, two public high schools, and a P-12 independent school. The Carine Regional Open Space is within walking distance of the Rectory. It features a wetland reserve with native wildlife and plants, as well as sporting and recreational facilities.

St Nicolas’ Church is a large, modern building, highly visible on the main road with plenty of parking. We have been shaped by the sacramental and liturgical traditions of the Anglican Church. Rigorous biblical scholarship is highly valued, and there is a willingness to embrace new and challenging ideas. We strongly affirm the ministry of ordained women, and aim to be a safe and inclusive space for LGBTQI+ people. Regular celebration of the Eucharist is at the heart of our life.

Each Sunday we gather for worship at 7.30am for a said Eucharist. At 9.30am, there is a sung Eucharist with faith formation activities for children, using the Godly Play approach. There is also a Eucharist on Wednesdays at 9.15am. The text for our liturgies is digitally projected on a screen, and music is provided by musicians from the congregation. Twice a month, the Rector leads worship in local aged care facilities.

Our congregation is demographically diverse, and some travel from surrounding areas to be part of our faith community. We have a large and active Mothers Union group, and Toddler Jam for small children and their families. We have recently started Families@Four, a new service with committed lay leaders which is targeted to families with children. A regular Men’s Breakfast, the Friendship Group and the Craft Group all contribute to a healthy sense of community connection. We also support the Breakfast Club at Balga Senior High School, and we have a relationship with CARAD and their work for refugees.

The Rectory is a comfortable family home with four bedrooms, two bathrooms and a study. The bathrooms and kitchen were renovated recently and the house has a two car garage. Powered by solar panels, the Rectory has reverse cycle air-conditioning in most rooms. There is no lawn! Instead, the Rectory has a sustainable garden with native plants and a range of fruit trees. Within a short drive there are several shopping centres, hardware stores and a cinema. The Rectory is adjacent to the church building, but rarely receives callers asking for financial or other assistance.

The pandemic has had an impact on congregational numbers and vitality. However, the parish remains strong and sustainable. There are a small number of baptisms and funerals each year and weddings in the church are extremely rare. With a paid administrative assistant and a hardworking Parish Council, we look to the Rector mainly for liturgical and spiritual leadership and pastoral care. The Parish Council is used to the Rector being involved in Diocesan activities and responsibilities outside the parish. We have a healthy, collaborative relationship with the parish of Kingsley.

The new Rector will be blessed by a site in good condition with no major maintenance works to be undertaken. Our finances are secure, and rely predominantly on congregational giving. This ministry offers the opportunity to build on our strengths and lead our parish in our next stage of growth.

Is God calling you?