This post has a clearly defined focus. The Canon Missioner will concentrate on overseeing the diocesan rollout of Natural Church Development (NCD), aligned with supporting the health of our Charges and the emerging diocesan vision. This is a focused appointment for a focused season.

At the heart of this role is our agreed diocesan priority of nurturing church health. NCD is not a growth programme but a framework for creating the conditions where God’s Spirit can bring new life, fruitfulness, and transformation. It helps congregations identify barriers to growth and take the next faithful step forward. Churches using NCD consistently discover that as health improves, growth often follows “all by itself” (Mark 4:27–28).

You don’t need to be an NCD expert to apply – training and support will be provided. More information can be found at www.ncd-uk.com or through our diocesan partners, Fordelm (NCD UK & Canada).  Interested applicants are encouraged to speak to Bishop Nicholas in the first instance, who will direct them to information that will help prepare candidates for interview.

Alongside this diocesan role, the Canon Missioner will serve as a member of staff at St Mary’s Cathedral, Glasgow, undertaking duties as assigned by the provost (it is expected that this would be a monthly contribution to the worship and life of the cathedral community).  The Canon Missioner will help to foster links between the diocese and cathedral.

Role Summary

The Canon Missioner will:

• Lead and oversee the rollout of NCD across the Diocese of Glasgow & Galloway, supporting clergy, vestries, and congregations to engage with the process.
• Build capacity in clergy and lay leaders for sustainable mission and ministry.
• Manage and report on the provincial and diocesan funding that enables this work.
• Serve as a member of the Cathedral staff at St Mary’s, contributing to community life and worship on a monthly basis.

Key Responsibilities

Diocesan Leadership

• Champion the diocesan priority of nurturing healthy Charges as the basis for growth and renewal.
• Equip clergy and lay leaders to use NCD tools and discern their next steps in health and growth.
• Establish peer learning and coaching networks to encourage collaboration between Charges.
• Oversee the distribution and accountability of the diocesan Change Enablement Fund.
• Produce diocesan health reports and contribute to evaluations for Provincial Standing Committee.
• Liaise with Fordelm and other NCD partners for training and support.

Cathedral & Chapter Ministry

• Share regularly in the worshipping life of St Mary’s Cathedral (monthly commitment).
• Preach and preside as assigned by the provost.

Person Specification

Essential

• Ordained priest in full communion with the Scottish Episcopal Church.
• Applicants must already have the right to work in the UK.
• A clear vocation to support and encourage the health of local churches.
• Proven experience in leading change and enabling mission in a parish or diocesan setting.
• Ability to work collaboratively with clergy, vestries, and diocesan officers.
• Strong communication and teaching skills, both in person and online.
• Theological depth combined with pastoral sensitivity.

Desirable

• Familiarity with NCD or other church health frameworks.
• Experience of cathedral ministry or working across a variety of church traditions.
• Skills in data analysis, project management, and reporting.
• Experience in conflict resolution, mediation, or restorative practice.

Terms of Appointment

Stipend: Standard Scottish Episcopal Church stipend (£36,381 per annum from January 2026)
Pension: Admittance to the Scottish Episcopal Church Pension Fund.
Housing: Suitable options within commuting distance of St Mary’s Cathedral, Glasgow will be offered to the successful candidate.
Status: Full member of the Cathedral Chapter and Bishop’s Core Group.
Reporting: Accountable to the Bishop and Provost, with day-to-day priorities agreed with the Dean and Rural Dean.
Start Date: By negotiation in 2026.

Closing date for applications: 12noon on Friday 14 November 2025