Larger Single Parishes

What is a Larger Single Parish?

Larger Single Parishes (LSP) in the Diocese of Liverpool are new team approaches to ministry developing deep trusting relationships in leaders with a commitment to see mission flourish by enhancing each other’s strengths and individuality.

Life in an LSP – The Vision of a Larger Single Parish:

Before becoming part of a Larger Single Parish (LSP), many of us were already feeling the strain beneath the surface of ministry. We loved our calling, yet clergy wellbeing across the Church of England was under significant pressure – and our own experience matched the national picture. Recent research from the Church of England’s Living Ministry project shows that nationally 40% of clergy report feeling isolated, and nearly 30% show symptoms of depression.¹ Burnout remains common, with finances, church buildings, and administrative demands among the biggest sources of discouragement, often pulling clergy away from their sense of vocation.

Read our full story here about clergy’s experience with wellbeing in a Larger Single Parish and how it has helped them to excel.

Find out how Larger Single Parishes create a mission focused future church:

What is Life Like in a Larger Single Parish?

Want to find more out about what life and well being in like for clergy in a larger single parish? We’ve put together a series of videos and stories to highlight that for you!

“One of the realities of being a leader of a church is that at times it’s really lonely and it’s really hard work,” reflects Rev Rachel Shuttleworth. Working in a Larger Single Parish (LSP) has changed that for Rachel and for many of us serving in Liverpool Diocese’s LSPs. When we look back at what ministry used to feel like, we remember the sense of carrying far too much alone.

So what is different now? Larger Single Parishes typically comprise 6 – 12 individual churches that share a PCC and work within a culture and structure of collaboration. Church Officers function as subcommittees of the PCC, and clergy meet weekly as a Clergy Leadership Team. Each church has its own Mission Plan focused on its local community, while also contributing to the overarching Mission Plan of the Larger Single Parish.

Click here to find out how collaboration works in a larger single parish.

Watch real stories from new worshipping communities in Church St Helens:

See current vacancies

What is Ministry Like in a Larger Single Parish?

Wondering what ministry is actually like in a Larger Single Parish? Why not check out our series of videos and stories that highlight the perks of them, what the experience is like for clergy and ultimately why you should get involved?

Life in an LSP – Coming to Ministry in Liverpool:

Life in an LSP – Ministry in a Larger Single Parish:

Life in an LSP – Team Ministry with Commitment to the Whole Body:

Life in an LSP – Curates in a Larger Single Parish:

Find out what a clergy experience is like in the Larger Single Parish of Church St Helens:

Life in an LSP – Team Rector on a Sunday:

Feel like a Larger Single Parish could be for you? Why not check out our current vacancies within our larger single parishes?

See current vacancies

Want to Stay Informed About Larger Single Parishes?

Search current roles on our vacancies page or sign up to our Vacancies Bulletin to be the first to hear about new roles.
Sign up for our Diocese Bulletin to hear regular stories about life in Larger Single Parishes.

Want to find out more about Larger Single Parishes and possibly arrange a visit to one? Why not get in touch with our Archdeacons to find out more!

Contact our Archdeacons