Vestry

St Bees Vestry meeting notice

HABS-SpesutiaParishVestryHouse-082093pr

Parish Chest in St. Mary's Church, Kempley - geograph.org.uk - 550586

Select vestry comforts LCCN2006691072

Plaque on St Pancras Way canal bridge - geograph.org.uk - 673594

Vestry refers to a room or building attached to a church, used as a meeting place for the church's congregation and sometimes for clergy offices. Historically, the term also referred to a committee or governing body elected by parishioners to manage church affairs and property in the Anglican Communion, including the Church of England and its counterparts in other countries. Over time, the administrative functions of vestries have evolved, but they continue to play a significant role in the governance of many Anglican parishes.

History

The concept of the vestry dates back to the early days of the Church of England, where it served as a meeting room for the parish's local government. The name "vestry" comes from the Latin vestiarium, which means a room for clothing, and originally referred to the place where priests would put on their vestments. Over time, this room became a place where parish matters were discussed and decided.

In the 16th and 17th centuries, as the administrative and territorial organization of the Church of England became more structured, the role of the vestry expanded. It began to take on secular responsibilities, such as poor relief, maintenance of roads, and public order, making it an important local government unit.

Function and Structure

The modern vestry in the Anglican tradition can serve multiple functions, including:

• A meeting place for the parish council or church board, which is responsible for the financial and administrative affairs of the parish.
• An office for the clergy.
• A storage area for religious items, such as vestments, liturgical books, and sacred vessels.
• A meeting room for various church groups and activities.

The structure and governance of vestries can vary significantly from one parish to another. In some cases, the vestry is elected by members of the congregation and includes officers such as the wardens (senior and junior) and a treasurer. The vestry may also include committees focused on specific aspects of church life, such as finance, property maintenance, and outreach.

Contemporary Role

While the role of the vestry has evolved, it remains a vital part of the Anglican Church's governance. Vestries are responsible for making important decisions regarding the church's finances, property, and the hiring of clergy. They also play a key role in the spiritual life of the congregation, supporting the clergy and lay leaders in their ministry.

In some countries, the term "vestry" has been replaced or supplemented by terms such as "parish council" or "church council," reflecting a broader ecumenical approach to church governance. However, the traditional term and its associated responsibilities continue to be used in many Anglican parishes around the world.

See Also

• Church of England
• Anglican Communion
• Parish
• Clergy
• Warden (church)