Diocese of Chichester

This 0.5 role is part of the first stage of national church funding for our ambitious Diocesan Growth Strategy 2025–2035 – a ten-year vision to bring revitalisation and missional growth to churches across Sussex. Alongside his diocesan post, Felix will continue his national role as Associate Director with the mission agency Leading your Church into Growth.

Focal ministry is an initiative to support clergy in multi-church benefices and is firmly grounded in the parish system and our ongoing commitment to ensure sacramental and pastoral care and mission in every parish. Local leaders, known as focal ministers, are appointed to be ‘the face of the church’ locally – providing local leadership and a consistent presence in their communities, under the oversight of the incumbent of the benefice. Such local leaders could be ordained (SSM deacons or priests or clergy with PTO) or authorised or licensed lay ministers.

Ordained for 12 years, Felix brings a breadth of experience from a rural multi-parish setting, through suburban congregations, an inner-city cathedral, and his recent work as Rural Dean of Worthing.

Speaking about his appointment, Felix said:

‘I’m really excited to take on this new role within the Diocese. I’m passionate about helping churches grow across the different traditions of the Church of England. Having been a parish priest for the last 8 years across a wide area with multiple churches, I know the difficulties and joys, the challenges and opportunities that comes with this type of ministry. Focal Ministry is a vital resource which will encourage parishes to grow, affirm the ministry of clergy and laity, whilst ensuring that the local church remains of chief importance.’

Contact: From 6th October, Fr Felix will normally be working on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Friday mornings. He can be contacted at: felix.smith@chichester.anglican.org