Religious Worker

Religious Worker – Saiva Kurukkal/Hindu Priest (General Assistant and Funeral Services)

About Us:

The Shree Ghanapathy Temple is a leading Hindu faith organisation based in South West London, UK. The temple, dedicated to Lord Ghanapathy, was the first fully consecrated south Indian Hindu temple in Europe. We have an outstanding reputation with our peers and other faith bodies throughout the UK. We are well known for our focus on religious worship, commitment to multi-faith activities, religious education and service to the wider community within the UK. We are a prominent Hindu faith organisation in London.

Job Description:

We have an urgent need to employ a full-time Saiva Kurukkal (Religious Worker in a non-pastoral & non-preaching role) to support our existing team of senior priests and the management team. Saiva Kurukkals are ordained Hindu Priests (of a Brahmin lineage) that undertake specific duties in support of the senior priests (Ministers of Religion), conduct last rites ceremonies and other religious activities related to our method/form of worship.

The successful individual will have in-depth knowledge of Hindu religious ceremonies, Mandapalli (preparation of sacred food), experience at and be qualified to conduct traditional Saiva Hindu funerals/last rites ceremonies. They will have an established background and proven experience in undertaking the duties listed below.

• The ability to conduct traditional Hindu Saivite funerals/ last rites ceremonies is essential for this role
• Setup Abishekham, Homum and Pooja / preparation for daily and special ceremonies
• Alangaram and decoration to all Deities
• Madapalli work (preparation of sacred food)
• Assist Temple Priests (Ministers of Religion) with religious ceremonies, festivals and daily activities
• Garland making.
• Other associated duties as directed.

Prerequisites:

• Ordained/conferred to Kurukkkalship (Vedaagamas)
• Must be able to perform last rites and Hindu Saivite funerals (essential)
• Know and ability to recite/chant vedic mantra’s and Slokas
• 2+ years’ experience working at a Saiva Hindu Temple
• If not already able to do so, Should be willing and committed to learn English as part of their personal development

This vacancy is exempt from the: Sex Discrimination Act 1975, (SDA) Section 7(II)(e); the Race Relations Act (RRA) and Equality Act 2010 due to genuine religious requirements.

As a condition of your employment you will be required to reside within the vicinity of the temple premises (in accommodation provided by us).

Benefits:

• Discounted/free food
• Accommodation provided