Full-Time Priest Serving the Parish of Emmanuel, Spryfield and Parish of Falkland (St. James Anglican Church, Herring Cove) in the Halifax area of Nova Scotia.
The Parishes of Emmanuel, Spryfield and St. James, Herring Cove are seeking a full-time priest to lead us in worship, pastoral care, and community engagement for a two-year contract. This unique position offers the opportunity to serve two vibrant and distinct congregations along Nova Scotia’s beautiful coastline—each with deep roots, open hearts, and a shared commitment to living out the Gospel in meaningful and joyful ways.
About the Role
This full-time position is divided between:
- 75% with Emmanuel Church, Spryfield
- 25% with St. James Church, Herring Cove
The position is for a two-year contract, with the possibility of renewal thereafter.
We are looking for a priest who:
- Leads with warmth, humility, and spiritual depth
- Embraces diversity and fosters belonging
- Is passionate about scripture, sacrament, and pastoral care
- Has spiritual gifts in ministry flourishing, particularly relating to children and families
- Is energized by both traditional and contemporary worship styles
- Supports and empowers lay leadership and ministry teams
- Is committed to outreach and community visibility
- Will walk alongside us in faith, laughter, and service
Parish of Emmanuel, Spryfield
Emmanuel is a growing and welcoming congregation located in a dynamic urban community. Our parish is experiencing a surge in population, including many newcomers to Canada—particularly Anglican families from Africa. We joyfully incorporate African drumming into our hymns and celebrate the richness of our evolving music ministry, led by our talented Music Director. Services are vibrant and spirit-filled, often featuring organ, piano, guitar, and a children’s choir.
We offer two Sunday services:
- A quiet, contemplative early service using the Book of Common Prayer
- A lively, family-friendly Eucharist using the Book of Alternative Services, which is livestreamed through our Facebook page.
Emmanuel is deeply committed to outreach. Our Food Bank, operating since the 1970s, serves a growing number of clients weekly, supported by a dedicated team of volunteers. We also host and support numerous community groups including Girl Guides, Narcotics Anonymous, and the YMCA, and offer welcoming programs like Coffee Group and Line Dancing.
Our parish life is enriched by active groups such as the Sanctuary Guild, Mother’s Union, Ladies Fellowship, Baptismal Preparation, Pastoral Care Team, and more. We are a church that opens its doors wide—to worship, to serve, and to celebrate.
Spryfield offers access to nature and recreation, with nearby lakes, beaches, hiking trails, and community centers. The area is home to schools, shops, and a strong sense of civic pride fostered by local organizations like the Spryfield District Business Commission and the Lions Club.
Parish of Falkland – St. James Anglican Church, Herring Cove
St. James is a small but deeply bonded congregation nestled in the historic fishing village of Herring Cove. Our worship is traditional and reverent, grounded in liturgy and the rhythms of the church calendar. We cherish our heritage and are open to thoughtful innovation that helps us grow spiritually and numerically.
We seek a priest who will help us become more visible in the wider community, engage with neighbours, and guide us in outreach and renewal. Our parish family is close-knit, resilient, and ready to walk alongside a leader who will laugh with us, pray with us, and help us discern God’s call for the future.
Herring Cove offers stunning ocean views, a peaceful pace of life, and a rich cultural history. Though we are tucked away, our hearts are wide open.
Serving Two Interconnected Communities
This role supports two closely linked neighbourhoods that share a vibrant network of community hubs and essential services. Residents from both areas rely on shared amenities such as grocery stores, schools, parks, libraries, and recreational facilities. The communities maintain distinct identities while benefiting from mutual access to resources, enjoying mutual cooperation.
We invite you to become part of our shared journey—serving two communities united by faith, hope, and love. If you are a priest who values tradition, embraces diversity, and is excited by the opportunity to lead in both urban and coastal settings, we would love to hear from you.
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To receive the profile and an application form please contact Tonia Wright, Executive Assistant, at bishopsoffice@nspeidiocese.ca . Deadline for applications is January 30th at 5:00 pm.
Please note: A Police Records Check report and a Vulnerable Sector Check report must be submitted before assuming this position. Anglican Clergy from outside the Diocese of Nova Scotia and PEI must present confirmation that they are an ordained minister in good standing and have their Bishop’s permission to seek employment opportunities outside their own diocese.