We are delighted to announce that following interviews Jonathan Philpott has been appointed as Mission Development Team Leader and Richard Kelley has been appointed as Chaplaincy Adviser. Both posts have been vacant since Mike Haslam moved to a new role in November 2024 and we have keenly felt the gap in the team. Both roles will be part-time, with the Chaplaincy Adviser post part funded through the generosity of the St Matthias Trust.
Mission Development Team Leader
Bishop Michael said, “I am delighted that Jonathan Philpott has been appointed as our Mission Development Team Leader. As an experienced parish priest, Jonathan will bring, to the work of parishes across our diocese, skills and understanding that will help us grow our churches and transform our communities.”
Jonathan will be working part-time in this role alongside his continuing work with the Giving and Funding team. As well as leading the Mission Development Team, he will bring valuable insights around the Anglican Five Marks of Mission to the wider team. Julia Hill, Head of Mission Support and Ministry Development said, “I am looking forward to working with Jonathan in this new role, confident that both his experience and his approach will be a real blessing to our diocese.”
In response to his appointment, Jonathan said, “I am really excited about being appointed as the new Mission Development Team Leader and can’t wait to get started! Encouraging the local church to explore a deeper understanding of its missional identity has been one of the main highlights of my time as a parish priest. I am now looking forward to working with some fantastic colleagues in the Mission Development Team to encourage and support the transformation of our communities inspired by the 5 Marks of Mission.”
Chaplaincy Adviser
As Richard takes up this role, Bishop Michael said, “Chaplaincy is one of the great strengths of our Diocese of Bath and Wells. With his first-hand experience of this ministry, Richard Kelley will help us affirm, support and extend the excellent chaplaincy work happening in different settings across Somerset, that helps us serve local communities in many different ways.”
Richard brings experience of teaching, ordained parish ministry and school chaplaincy to this role, as well as experience of co-leading the Exploring Chaplaincy course. J
Julia Hill, Head of Mission Support and Ministry Development, said, “Richard has a passionate commitment to chaplaincy and I know he will offer really excellent support to the wide range of chaplains of all ages across our diocese, as well as playing a part in deepening our understanding of the rich diversity of roles to which God calls people. I look forward to seeing him build on the excellent foundations already in place.”
Richard said, “I’m really excited to step into this role and to have the opportunity to support and champion chaplaincy across our diocese. Chaplaincy is such a vital way in which we connect with and care for people in all kinds of settings. I’ve seen firsthand the difference it can make, and I look forward to encouraging and equipping others as we continue to grow this important ministry together.”