Job Description for Vestry Members

Canons / Bylaws

• Communicant in good standing who regularly attends public services of the parish.
• Baptized; confirmed (does not indicate a denomination).
• Age 16 years or older.
• Recognized as members by the rector and at least one of the wardens.
• Names must appear on the books of the parish treasurer as having contributed a pledge or by subscription to the funds to meet expenses or other obligations of the parish during the six months immediately prior to the annual parish meeting. It being understood that the pledge of obligation for such contributions shall have been incurred prior to the said six months.
• Declare themselves conscientiously attached to the doctrine, discipline and worship of the church.

Time Commitment

• Two hours per month in vestry meetings
• 1-2 hours per month in preparation for meetings
• Time in parish activities (in whatever activities interest you)
• Sr. Warden: 1 year
• Jr. Warden: 1 year

Leadership Qualities

Vestry service leads to:

• Being more active in the parish, through time and talent contributions.
• Greater faithfulness in attendance and prayer (for the vestry, the rector, the parish).
• An increased focus on one’s place in the community.
• Empowerment of self and in turn, empowering other members of the parish.
• Participation in being part of a learning team (you don’t have to know “everything” first in order to serve on the vestry).
• Being an advocate and supporter for the parish, promoting its welfare, events, etc.
• Working with others in a dynamic team setting (vestry members change each year by 1/3).
• Working with others to be inclusive of ownership.
• Support the Millennium Development Goals as adopted by the Episcopal Church and the Diocese of Chicago.

Vestry service is seen as:

· Taking a turn as a part of the community (not a once-only opportunity).

· An opportunity to develop faithfulness to Jesus and faith community.

· Equaling service to God: team approach is visionary for the parish, being transparent in all activities and decisions as leaders, and seeing the whole picture without regard to special interests or personal agendas.

· An opportunity for spiritual growth, not just about administration of the physical plant, budget, etc.

· An opportunity to take part in, understand and serve the larger church through diocesan activities, workshops, conventions – meeting others from different areas and seeing the national and global aspects of our church.