Non-Pastoral Hindu Religious Worker

About Anandam (London)

Anandam (London) is a socio-cultural registered charity established in East London to promote Hindu philosophy and community wellbeing. It serves the local Hindu and predominantly Bengali community, although all individuals are welcome. The organisation hosts regular Kirtans and Satsangs, along with annual cultural and religious festivals such as Kali Puja (Diwali). As the organisation is predominantly operated by elderly volunteers and there is increased demand from our elderly devotees for additional outreach work, additional non-pastoral support is required to ensure the smooth running and expansion of activities.

Role Profile & Key Responsibilities

This role is strictly a non-pastoral Religious Worker position. The postholder will not lead worship, conduct ceremonies, provide spiritual instruction, or perform pastoral duties. All duties will support senior religious members and organisational volunteers through practical, administrative, cultural, and community-facing tasks.

1. Religious Event Preparation (Non-Pastoral)

Prepare Puja and Kirtan venues, including cleaning, arranging spaces, and setting up materials under direction.

Prepare all required items - flowers, offerings, religious idols, instruments, and decorations - for Kirtans, monthly devotional gatherings, festival days, and other scheduled events.

Support the logistical setup for Kali Puja and other annual cultural festivals following the Hindu calendar.

Assist with preparation and distribution of prasād (food offerings) under supervision.

2. Cultural & Community Outreach Support

Support community-facing cultural activities, including assisting with event logistics, communications, and coordination.

Help facilitate Bengali cultural programmes, workshops, and gatherings as directed by Management.

Assist volunteers and community members - particularly elderly participants - in navigating events, activities and well-being related outreach work.

Provide practical support for community outreach initiatives aimed at strengthening engagement within the local Hindu/Bengali community. (All outreach tasks remain non-pastoral and non-ministerial.)

3. Administrative & Operational Support

Assist with administrative duties such as record-keeping, maintaining inventories of religious and cultural materials, and scheduling support.

Help organise volunteer rotas during large gatherings or festivals.

Provide practical support to Management in coordinating cultural events, ensuring smooth running of activities.