vestry
The vestry is the legal representative of the parish with regard to all matters pertaining to its corporate property. The number of vestry members and the term of office varies from parish to parish. Vestry members are usually elected at the annual parish meeting. The presiding officer of the vestry is the rector. There are usually two wardens. The senior warden leads the parish between rectors and is a support person for the rector. The junior warden often has responsibility for church property and buildings. A treasurer and a secretary or clerk may be chosen. These officers may or may not be vestry members. The basic responsibilities of the vestry are to help define and articulate the mission of the congregation; to support the church's mission by word and deed, to select the rector, to ensure effective organization and planning, and to manage resources and finances. From www.episcopalchurch.org
The vestry is charged with property management, fiduciary administration, and human resources responsibilities. However, the vestry is very different from a corporate or non-profit board of directors. Vestry members must apply their baptismal vows to their acquired business experience in carrying out the mission and ministry of the congregation. When vestry members are elected they are called to a sacred ministry by the body of Christ. The work of the vestry is crucial to the life of the congregation.
The vestry is charged with property management, fiduciary administration, and human resources responsibilities. However, the vestry is very different from a corporate or non-profit board of directors. Vestry members must apply their baptismal vows to their acquired business experience in carrying out the mission and ministry of the congregation. When vestry members are elected they are called to a sacred ministry by the body of Christ. The work of the vestry is crucial to the life of the congregation.
