Pastoral Residency

The Buford Bowen Pastoral Residency

St. Mark’s Episcopal Church – Jacksonville, FL

One Year. A Lifetime of Impact.

A Year of Sacred Preparation
Are you discerning a call to lead in the Church? The Buford Bowen Pastoral Residency is a one-year, full-time opportunity to grow as a gospel-centered pastor, teacher, and leader in the Anglican tradition. Whether you’re newly ordained or preparing for ordination, this residency will immerse you in the life of a dynamic, multigenerational parish while offering close mentorship, hands-on ministry experience, and a community committed to your growth.

This program continues the legacy of Buford Bowen, a devoted layman of St. Mark’s known for raising up leaders, nurturing faith, and serving with joy.

What the Residency Offers

Spiritual and Theological Formation
  • Rooted in Scripture, tradition, and the Book of Common Prayer
  • Weekly mentoring with seasoned clergy
  • Guided pastoral reflections and spiritual retreats
Immersive Ministry Experience
  • Regular preaching and liturgical leadership
  • Teaching in youth, adult, and children’s formation
  • Pastoral care, home visits, and sacramental preparation
  • Leading small groups, mission events, and worship planning
Leadership and Discernment
  • Exposure to church governance, strategy, and team leadership
  • Opportunities to initiate or lead projects aligned with your gifts
  • Vocational coaching to help clarify your long-term call
Program Details
  • Duration: 12 months (start date flexible)
  • Status: Full-time pastoral resident or curate
  • Location: Ortega neighborhood, Jacksonville, Florida
  • Compensation package includes salary, health benefits, housing allowance, and professional development
  • Mentorship: Led by the Rector and clergy of St. Mark’s
  • Eligibility:
    • Seminary graduate or postulant in discernment
    • Ordained or on ordination track (Episcopal or Anglican tradition)
    • Demonstrated spiritual maturity, humility, and leadership potential

Why St. Mark's?

Located on the banks of the St. Johns River, St. Mark’s Episcopal Church is a vibrant, growing parish committed to “cultivating generations of servant-leaders rooted in God’s Word and nurtured by the Holy Spirit to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus to the world.”
We believe the Church must invest in its future by investing in you.

“I am so grateful to be part of a church that believes in forming the next generation of leaders. This residency is about growing deeper in Christ, gaining confidence in ministry, and being sent out with joy.”

— The Rev. Charlie Holt, Rector

Apply or Learn More

Contact us to begin a conversation about whether this season of formation could be your next faithful step. Contact: revholt@smjax.org