An Anglican Vestry
The vestry is the governing board of an Anglican congregation. Its members are elected by the members of the congregation from nominees determined by the Rector and vestry. (Nominees must meet diocesan criteria.) It is chiefly responsible for the “temporalities” of the congregation, in line with its vision. It elects the Rector, who is responsible for the “spiritualities.” In practice this means that the vestry oversees finances, facilities, and equipment needed for the congregation’s ministry. Its officers include a Senior Warden, a Junior Warden (chair and co-chair), treasurer and secretary (sometimes called a clerk or registrar). The Rector presides over vestry meetings; in his or her absence, the Senior Warden presides.
The vestry’s tasks include:
- Appointing a finance committee to give regular financial reports.
- Approving the budget.
- Supporting the Rector in the spiritual leadership of congregation.
- Asking for the Bishop’s help or advice for significant congregational, staff or vestry concerns/conflict.
Historical tidbits:
- The name vestry comes from the room where vestries traditionally met – the “vestry” was the room where clergy “vested” for the worship service.
- Vestries used to include 12 members; today, many congregations have found a smaller group to be more practical.
Some differences from the governing boards of other denominations:
- The vestry elects a new Rector, not the congregation.
- The vestry approves the budget; the congregation receives it.
- The vestry doesn’t meet without the Rector unless he or she approves.
As you consider nominating a potential vestry member, consider:
- Is this person a faithful Christian with a lively faith?
- Does the person embrace the mission of Trinity, Burke wholeheartedly?
- Is this someone who can put the needs of the parish ahead of his or her own preferences?
- Is this person prayerful, seeking God’s wisdom in decision-making?
- Is he or she a good listener, able to consider different points of view?
In the coming weeks, we will ask for nominations from the congregation to serve on our first vestry. Beyond the above characteristics, we’re looking for nominees who:
- Are members at in good standing at Trinity – specifically, we’re looking for folks who regularly participate in the life and ministry of Trinity while also giving and serving cheerfully
- Have attended Trinity for at least one year
Would you prayerfully consider in the next few weeks who might be a faithful and fruitful member of our first vestry? Nominations will open in October.