St. Mary's in the Hills

Vestry

Episcopal congregations that have been granted parish status by their diocese, such as St. Mary's, are governed by their rector and the Vestry. Traditionally, and by canon law, the Vestry, consisting of wardens and other members, is the legal representative of the parish "in all matters concerning its corporate property and the relations of the Parish to its Clergy." Except as may be provided by the state law or diocesan canons.

The Vestry performs has both secular and canonical responsibilities. As a body, the Vestry is responsible for the churches finances and resources; selection of the parish's rector; governance of the parish's business; the determination of appropriate programs, policies and procedures; and performance assessment amongst other responsibilities. Individual Vestry members serve the congregation with various responsibilities ranging from conducting business on behalf of the Vestry to leading and guiding the various parish ministries.

The Vestry is elected by the congregation and is led by the Rector. At St. Mary's, our vestry members serve a three year term with one third of the Vestry elected each Autumn to begin serving in the following calendar year. By Tradition, the Senior Warden is the "Rector's Warden", whose responsibility is to champion and represent the Rector to the body. Similarly, the Junior Warden is "the People's Warden," specifically representing and championin the needs of the congregation on the Vestry. Other members of the Vestry have specific focii such as Education, Worship, and Building & Grounds. Inreach is a ministry on the Vestry focused on the growth of the parish and helping newcomers and veteren parishoners alike engage with the community of the Parish. Outreach is another important ministry on the Vestry focused on St. Mary's efforts to contribute to the greater community outside the parish.