For there is no authority except from God. - Romans 13:1
We are governed by our parish by-laws in accordance with the Diocesan Canons as well as the National Canons of the Episcopal Church. As a non-profit corporation, we are also required to be in compliance with applicable Pennsylvania law.
The by-laws provide guidelines regarding various aspects of the operation of the church. This includes the annual meeting, qualification of voters, elections, vestry guidelines, selection of the rector, church property and indemnification. A majority vote of the members is required to alter, amend or repeal any of the by-laws. Advance notice must be given of any proposed changes.
Vestry members, as well as deputies to the Diocesan Convention and delegates to the Deanery, are elected at the annual parish meeting, which is held in February. Candidates and voters must meet qualifications as set forth in the by-laws. There are fifteen vestry members who serve three-year terms and may not serve more than two consecutive terms. The vestry's primary responsibilities are fiduciary and property matters. It also develops plans for the parish and serve on various committees, such as, finance, stewardship, property, outreach and evangelism. The vestry or the rector may form committees. Regular vestry meetings are held on the third Thursday of each month and are chaired by the Rector's Warden. When necessary, additional meetings are called to handle important and urgent matters.
We also have an auxiliary vestry, whose members must meet the same requirements as the vestry, and are also elected to three-year terms. These individuals attend vestry meetings, serve on committees and may vote on all non-financial matters. Serving on the auxiliary vestry provides exposure to governance of the parish and helps train and prepare persons to serve on the vestry. The auxiliary vestry may have up to thirty members. There are twelve currently serving.
Our Rector's Warden is appointed by the rector and is often called the Senior Warden. The Rector's Warden communicates regularly and works closely with the rector. An Accounting Warden maintains a statement of income and expenses, as well as the list of members of the congregation. The Treasurer maintains the accounts of the parish. The Clerk is responsible for the minutes of the meetings. The vestry elects these officers.
The rector is responsible for the overall worship and spiritual life of the parish. This includes regular and special services, pastoral care and religious education. The rector supervises assistant clergy and staff and is responsible for the use of church property. It is also important that the rector works closely with the vestry in developing and implementing plans for the parish.