Two years on, hunt for replacement Rector of Diss continues

The search for a new rector for Diss remains a work in progress – nearly two years after the post first became vacant.

Parishioners have been waiting on news of an appointment since the Rev Canon Tony Billett retired in September 2022.

Mr Billett had been Rector of Diss – a position with responsibility for 11 parishes, including Winfarthing, Tivetshall and the Lophams – for 21 years.

Despite being advertised on the Diss Team Ministry website a number of times since his departure, the position has yet to be filled.

A spokeswoman for the Diocese of Norwich said: “It is not an unusual situation to have to advertise a few times for a member of clergy. This is not a situation unique to this diocese either.

“We are thankful for the ministry of Rev Canon Tony Billett. During the ongoing vacancy for a team rector, a team vicar has been in post throughout this time.

“There is also an assistant team priest, as well as licenced lay ministers and authorised worship assistants.”

The rectory that accompanies the role used to be a property in Mount Street in Diss, but that was sold, with the home in need of a complete renovation.

The diocese purchased a more modern six-bedroom property just over a year ago, but this remains unoccupied.

Further discussions are due to take place later this month, as the diocese seeks a resolution to the unfilled role.

“A meeting has been planned with churchwardens of the parishes to review and discuss the way forward,” the diocesan spokeswoman told the Diss Express.

The Diss Team Ministry operates under a minster-model system, which means it has one central parish – using St Mary’s Church in Mount Street, Diss – which acts as a hub to the others.