Rector and Wardens:
Vacant – Rector
George Osgood – Senior Warden
Bonnie Tranbarger -Junior Warden
Vestry Members:
– Rose Rudinski
– Stephanie Pranses
– Allen Morrow
– Lee Borts
– Deb Kerr
– Mary Kimball
– Jim Tutak
The vestry in an Episcopal church serves as the governing body of the parish, working collaboratively with the clergy to oversee the church’s mission, administration, and operations. Here’s an outline of their key responsibilities:
1. Financial Oversight
- Budget Management: Develops, approves, and monitors the church’s annual budget.
- Stewardship: Encourages and oversees financial stewardship, including fundraising and pledging campaigns.
- Property Management: Ensures proper maintenance and care of church buildings and grounds.
2. Support for Clergy
- Clergy Selection: Assists in the calling of a new rector when a vacancy occurs.
- Support and Counsel: Provides support and guidance to the rector, fostering a collaborative working relationship.
- Compensation and Benefits: Sets the rector’s salary and approves other clergy compensation.
3. Mission and Vision
- Strategic Planning: Helps define and implement the church’s mission, vision, and priorities.
- Program Oversight: Supports ministries and programs that align with the church’s goals.
4. Representation and Accountability
- Parish Representation: Acts as a representative body for the congregation in decision-making.
- Diocesan Liaison: Maintains communication with the diocese, including participation in diocesan conventions.
5. Legal and Administrative Duties
- Compliance: Ensures adherence to church canons and civil laws.
- Record Keeping: Maintains accurate records of vestry meetings and decisions.
The vestry is typically composed of elected members from the congregation, including a senior warden (often a primary lay leader) and a junior warden (usually overseeing property matters). The rector chairs the vestry, and a secretary and treasurer manage meeting minutes and finances, respectively. Vestry members serve a term (commonly three years) and are expected to model active engagement in the life of the church.