What is a Churchwarden and what do they do?

The duties of churchwarden as laid down in Canon Law of the Church of England, are that they shall be foremost in representing the laity and co-operating with the incumbent, they shall use their best endeavours by example and precept to encourage the parishioners in the practice of true religion and to promote unity and peace among them; they shall maintain order and decency in the church and churchyard, especially during the time of divine service; they shall discharge the duties assigned to them by law and custom in relation to the children and articles belonging to it.

John Doherty and Bruce Merrick

Well that’s the official version! What does it all mean you may ask? To put it simply the Churchwardens are responsible for all the fixtures and fittings and property in the church, and the right hand persons to the Clergy. In the case of an Interregnum (when the Church is without a Vicar through one leaving and another not yet arriving) the Churchwardens are responsible for the running of the Church. At “All Saints” we now have a Church Operations Manager who carries some of the load regarding day to day maintenance etc and work concerning the Church Centre, as well as working with the staff team . Wardens are responsible for the yearly count of congregation and also property. They are responsible for the welcome and sidesperson teams and with their assistants, making sure that things run smoothly on a Sunday morning. The Churchwardens at “All Saints” regularly meet with John Lambert and Rob Pepper to ensure that everything is in order and moving according to plan. The Wardens also have a friendly listening ear so if you want to speak to John or one of the clergy but are unable to do so, speak to the Churchwardens. They don’t bite …………

honest.