Saint Luke's Vestry
The governance of an Episcopal congregation is shared between the Rector (or priest-in-charge) and the Vestry. The Vestry are our lay leaders. They oversee all matter pertaining to finance and property of the church. Members are elected to three year terms at the annual parish meeting. The term "Vestry" comes from England in the days when parish elections were held in the vesting room off of the church (the vestry).
Officers of Vestry include the Senior Warden, Junior Warden, and Clerk or Secretary. The Wardens are also elected by the parish. They are responsible for many administrative functions of the parish and are representatives of the parish to the Diocese. The Senior Warden (sometimes called the "Rector's Warden") provides support and counsel to the Rector and is the administrative leader of a congregation when the Rector is absent. The Junior Warden (sometimes called the "People's Warden") provides leadership in key areas of parish life, is a liaison between the congregation and its leadership, and steps in when the Senior Warden is not available. The Secretary of the Vestry is elected by the Vestry and keeps the minutes and other records of Vestry meetings. The parish also has a Treasurer, who is appointed by the Vestry.
Photo: Newly elected members of the Vestry are recognized during worship
At St. Luke's, Vestry members provide leadership and consultation in most areas of parish life. Vestry meetings are normally held on the second Wednesday of each month at 6:00 pm, from September to June.