Lecturer in Theology

Role Description As a key member of the academic staff team the Lecturer in Theology will work collaboratively under the leadership of the Director of the Theological Institute to deliver programmes of ministerial and theological formation and to contribute to the life of the learning community. Overall Job Purpose In adherence to the Bishops vision for the Church of Ireland, to co-ordinate, teach and carry out research in the areas of theology, theological reflection, academic writing and research methods. To ensure that the academic standards as laid out in the curricula are attained, and that specified learning outcomes are met. To develop curricula for both residential and distance-learning pathways. Under the Director to work collaboratively with other staff and to be fully involved in the worshipping life of the community. To assist in other course development as required, with a particular emphasis on academic administrative processes and the co-ordination/delivery of Ordained Local Ministry, Diocesan Reader and Pioneer Ministry training. Duties and Responsibilities To work collaboratively under the oversight of the Director as a full member of the faculty team. Teaching: to teach two core modules and one elective module (in an area of specialist interest), to include inputs at both Certificate and Masters levels. Teaching incorporates residential and non-residential modes of study through a combination of monthly weekends and online-learning. To co-ordinate a research and writing curriculum, including preparation towards fieldwork, dissertation, and, where necessary, ethics approval. To be involved in the supervision of student MTh dissertations. To participate in developing and delivering co-requisite aspects of the MTh formational curriculum, including Christian Spirituality and tutorial/discipleship group leadership, and to take responsibility for the development of Theological Reflection across all student cohorts. Administration: To co-ordinate the delivery of Ordained Local Ministry and Diocesan Reader training and the emerging involvement of CITI in Pioneer Ministry training. To take responsibility for academic administration, especially the annual processes of marks entry in collaboration with other staff. To lead the resourcing and upskilling of staff in relation to online technologies, and particularly the university digital-learning platform. Research To demonstrate evidence of completed and planned research. To undertake all such other duties as may be required in the normal running of a professional theological academic institution. Essential Criteria Completed or near completed PhD in a theological discipline. Demonstrable commitment to excellence, integration, and creativity in teaching and learning, including the modelling of reflective practice and student involvement. Demonstrable commitment to ongoing research and publication. Understanding of and willingness to teach in a denominational theological institution and openness to students of varying backgrounds, theologies and commitments, including emerging movements and approaches (e.g. pioneer ministry). Desirable Criteria A priest in Anglican orders to enable preaching and presiding in chapel. Demonstrated ability to teach research, writing, and fieldwork methodologies. Experience of teaching via distance-learning technologies. Strong administrative capacity and an ability to manage complex systems. About the Institute The Theological Institute is responsible for ordination, Continuing Ministerial Education (CME) and lay training within the Church of Ireland. There are currently two main courses: a Professional Masters in Theology (MTh) and a Certificate in Christian Theology and Practice (CCTP), both offered in association with the University of Dublin, Trinity College. The MTh is taught in two pathways - residential (over 3 years) and non-residential (over 4 years). The CCTP is a one-year course which brings potential students to the point of selection for training for ordination. When supplemented by a suite of Reflective Learning modules, the CCTP forms the core of Ordained Local Ministry and Diocesan Reader training. CME runs as a part-time course in the first three years of stipendiary curacy.[1] The educational philosophy within CITI is that of integrating theory with practice across the core disciplines of scripture, theology and ministry. The emphasis within formation is on enabling students to grow in their own spirituality and discipleship, in becoming reflective practitioners and in their commitment to life-long learning. The key characteristics of ministerial formation are outlined in the Bishops Policy Document.[2] Requirements Attendance at staff meetings and any other meetings requested by the Director. Submission and review of teaching plans and annual appraisal by the Director. Compliance with all policies including IT, GDPR, Safeguarding and Health & Safety. Willingness to review and act constructively on student and peer feedback. Willingness to represent the Institute across the wider church, including travel where necessary. Adherence to the ethos of the Church of Ireland. Personal Qualities We are seeking to appoint a person, well qualified in the appropriate theological disciplines, who: endorses the aims and objectives of the Church of Ireland Theological Institute as outlined in the Bishops policy document, particularly the Institutes commitment to enrich all traditions. understands ministerial formation, the blending of traditional models of church with pioneer expressions, and Christian mission. can work collaboratively, relates well to students, and has good communication skills. is proficient in IT capability and is able to think strategically. has an understanding of both residential and distance-learning. has a commitment to continuous professional development and ongoing training, including willingness to grow into the role and take on further teaching areas as programmes develop. Details of Employment Title: Lecturer in Theology Employed by: TheRepresentative Church Body of the Church of Ireland on an initial fixed term contract of 5 years duration. Responsible to: The Director of the Theological Institute and the CITI Governing Council. Context: To liaise with other members of staff, students and church representatives. To foster links between the Institute, the Church, the University of Dublin (School of Religion) and other appropriate bodies, and to be willing to represent the Institute to such bodies. Work Place: The Church of Ireland Theological Institute, Braemor Park, Churchtown, Dublin, D14 KX24. Hours of Work: Average 35 per week but considerable variation throughout the year. Flexibility will be required to meet the varying needs of teaching courses and supporting non-residential students. Consequently, this will involve regular evening and weekend work. Annual entitlement to six weeks of holiday. Remuneration and benefits: The remuneration and benefits package will be consistent with comparable third level educational positions, taking into account the experience and qualifications of the successful candidate. If housing is provided, the salary will be set in a way that is commensurate. Appendix 1 The Clergy Formation Plan Broad Statement of Purpose or Intent To equip fully all members of the church ordained and lay and to fulfill effectively the churchs mission in 21st century Ireland Recognising the recent major changes in society the increased demands and pressures on the ordained ministry the Bishops are undertaking this project in order to:- Ensure ordained clergy are fully equipped and trained to carry out the complex role demanded of them. Facilitate the churchs transition from the existing model to a new missional and pastoral model that would better reflect the shape of 21st century Ireland. To reconnect the many, energized, passionate and young people who feel disconnected from the current model of training they are being offered. To provide a method of training that facilitates healthy family relationships during the period of training. To build on the momentum provided by the Inspection Report to review and rethink the goals of training and to ensure the training is in line with the stated goals and mission of the church. That the methods we use to train people will, throughout, effectively connect learning and practice This will aim to foster and encourage life long learning through new educational approaches. Overall Aspirations of the House of Bishops for those who are being trained for Ministry To connect learning and practice To ensure that theology is not learnt in isolation but connected and applied to real ministry situations. To enable students in subsequent ministry positions to be able to apply their learning to the challenges they face and to connect culture and theology. To nurture gifting for ministry and mission in an entirely new and ever-changing social context. To deepen spiritual self-awareness and theological wisdom. To develop holiness and integrity of character. To initiate a process of lifelong learning and deepening vocation. To ensure that the training process is an enriching experience for all CofI Church traditions. To enable those who are trained to be open theologically to fresh challenges in a lifetime of ministry. Further Aspirations of the House of Bishops for this Project a.Aspirations for developing characteristics of the Ordained Ministry The bishops have clearly articulated their view of the mission of the Church and the developing characteristics they would seek of those whom God is calling to fulfill that mission:Spirituality, Theological Reflection, Pastoral Care, Worship and Preaching, Worship and Liturgy, Leadership, Vision, Mission, Management and Change, Administration, Vocation. b.Academic Aspirations Ensuring that there is a full integration between learning and practice. That the academic pathways connect with universally recognisable levels of academic accreditation. The use of different styles and approaches to learning that help students make the connection. The encouragement of active participation in the learning process The encouragement and recognition of differing academic and theological viewpoints. To inculcate the principles of lifelong learning. An academic approach that is relevant and inspiring for all age groups but particularly will engage with younger members offering themselves for ordination. To get away from the trend of the pre-retirement opting for ministry. The distinction and link of intellectual enquiry and faith focused information. c.Relational Community Aspirations A focused and purposeful residency based on an agreed annual community covenant. A community life that is family friendly and that seeks to integrate adults and children into the community life. A community that encourages space for differing traditions to be expressed and explored together. A community undergirded by community worship and prayer. A community that encourages and fosters mutual support structures for future ministry. A community that has the structures and the skills to handle conflict. A community that finds ways of connecting with the wider church. A community that also engages with other faith communities in an ecumenical and interfaith context. [1]Details of all courses can be accessed on the CITI website. See the web address above. [2] See Appendix 1. Skills: Teaching Administration Research