Could the jobs crisis be an opportunity for churches?

We live in unusual times. Job adverts have been carefully drafted and widely distributed, yet the deadline for applications comes and goes with no one expressing interest.

This scenario has been taking place up and down the country. Currently, there are record numbers of vacancies as firms struggle to recruit. We experience the outworking of this with scenes of airport chaos and rising NHS waiting lists. There are shortages across sectors, from probation officers and dental nurses to plasterers, construction workers, and the agriculture industry. Those wanting to learn to drive cannot find driving instructors or even book a test.

The church is not immune to the difficulties. Jobs for assistant ministers, family and children’s workers have gone unfilled. I have heard of job adverts that have gone out with no applications received. This has been particularly true in the north of England, although it might be the case in the south too.