Not all clergy are “stipendiary” - that is, paid for the full- or part-time work they do for the Church. Priestly ministry offered by those who receive no payment has been a recognised calling in the Church of England under a variety of titles for more than 50 years.
Self-supporting deacons or priests may continue in their paid employment, may be retired on a pension, or be financially supported by their partner. Those who offer this ministry receive the same training and qualification as those who work in stipendiary posts and, once ordained, also serve as assistant curates in a parish for three or four years, usually leaving their home parish to complete their training. The location of their ministry thereafter is carefully determined in consultation with the Bishop and other Diocesan officers, and may include unpaid parish ministry or employment in secular organisations in ministerial positions, such as hospital, police or prison chaplains. Some self-supporting clergy take on posts of responsibility in parishes, such as unpaid incumbency or in a House-for-Duty role.
The Diocese of Truro has appointed The Revd Jeffrey Risbridger as the Dean of Self-supporting Clergy, and he can be contacted at SSMDean@truro.anglican.org Father Jeff is supported by a small team of Chaplains who can offer a listening ear or prayer support to any self-supporting clergy who would appreciate this ministry.
