Being on the Vestry – A Commitment to God and Church
By Lori+ and Meg Amouroux
Are you looking for a way to contribute to the vitality of our church?
Do you enjoy great company, joyful laughter, and making a difference?
Every Episcopal Church (Parish) has a vestry, a group of individuals who are elected by the congregation at the annual parish meeting to serve a three year term. St. James’ bylaws currently state that we are to have 12 individuals on our vestry. Each runs on a three-year term, and each year when 4 people end their terms, 4 new people are elected. On January 31st, we will be electing FOUR new members to the Vestry.
Please prayerfully consider if God is calling you to run for a spot in this important body. We all bring our different backgrounds and skills, to be of service.
Why is it called a Vestry? Originally the word referred to the room where the priest would put on his vestments. At that time, the laity, or parish council, would meet with him to discuss the affairs of the parish. Over time, the name of the room came to signify the group of men who governed a parish because it was where they met. While the vestry meeting location has changed, the name has remained the same.
What is the role of the Vestry? Per the Canons of the Episcopal Church, the Vestry is responsible for the fiduciary integrity of the church. The vestry also works with the rector to establish policy, to cast a vision for the future of the parish, to delegate resources and to identify, develop and motivate leadership. The vestry also serves as an advisory council to the rector who by church law is the parish’s chief liturgical and pastoral officer. Throughout the year we provide oversight of church finances, lead or assist with outreach and stewardship projects, and more– all with the mindset of being God’s hands in the world.
Who can serve on the Vestry? Any pledging member of St. James’ who is over 18 years of age is eligible to run for a vestry position.
What are the expectations of the Vestry members? The vestry meets once a month on the second Thursday. We begin with dinner at 6:30pm. Meetings last from 7 – 9pm, and we end with the service of Compline. Each member agrees to provide dinner and lead the prayer once per year. Vestry members engage in one annual retreat and are expected to participate in church-wide events such as the Annual Meeting and Stewardship Event.
There is a real need for you to help St. James’ continue to grow as a welcoming and vibrant community, will you accept the invitation?
Consider running for Vestry. Any vestry member can share with you their experience – ask them! Dave Nelsen (Sr. Warden/retiring), Meg Amouroux (Jr. Warden), Ralph Locher (retiring), Al Casas (retiring), Alison Saichek (retiring), Nancy Castaneda, Ashley Francis, Charles Hall, Karen Koonze, Vivienne Paratore, and Elaine Vallecillo-Miller.