Applications are now open for the roles of Junior Warden, Vestry Members, and Convention Delegates. Each of these positions offers a unique opportunity to serve our parish, providing leadership and fostering growth within our church community.
Applications are due Wednesday, January 12, 2025 at noon to be included in the Annual Meeting Packet.
Is God Calling You To Be Our Next Junior Warden?
Saint Matthew’s is seeking a passionate and dedicated parishioner to serve as Junior Warden in 2025. Traditionally focused on property management, this role has been reimagined to emphasize fostering growth within our church family through Inreach Ministries, including fellowship, spiritual growth, and education.
View the full Junior Warden Description
Is God Calling You To Serve On Our Vestry?
Serving on the Vestry is a rewarding opportunity to provide leadership and vision for our church. Vestry members are confirmed Episcopalians who are actively involved in worship and programs, financially supportive of the parish, and passionate about our shared mission. Four vestry members are elected to a three-year term each year at our Annual Meeting.
Partial Term for 2025: This year, a partial term to fulfil a one-year vestry term is up for election.
Please Note: After being elected, all vestry members, including wardens, are required to complete Safe Church, Safe Communities within 30 days of the Annual Meeting. Episcopal Diocese of Arizona Anti-Racism training is required in the first year of being elected to the vestry based on program availability.
Is God Calling You To Be A Convention Delegate?
The Diocesan Convention, held annually, focuses on governance by passing a budget, electing diocesan leaders, considering resolutions, and hearing reports and the bishop's address. Beyond governance, it is a vibrant gathering for worship, informative presentations, networking, and celebrating ministries and leaders. Senior and Junior Wardens are automatically included as delegates and do not need to be elected. The 2025 Diocesan Convention will take place October 10–11, 2025 at All Saints’ Church and Day School in Phoenix. The cost of attending convention is paid for by the church but transportation is not included.
FAQs
What is the Vestry?
The Vestry is composed of elected leaders of the congregation. They make many of the most important decisions about the running of the church, such as approving the budget and engaging in long-term strategic planning. Although there are some differences, the Vestry is much like the Board of Directors at any other nonprofit organization.
When and how often does the Vestry meet?
Vestry meetings are currently once a month on a weeknight, although the time is determined by the consensus of the Vestry itself.
How is the Vestry elected? How long do members serve?
Elections are held once a year at the Annual Meeting. The members of the church (more on this later) vote to fill open seats from the slate of candidates. Nominations can also be made from the floor during the meeting, although submitting information ahead of time is very helpful in creating a smooth process. Once elected, members serve for three years.
Who is eligible to run for the Vestry?
The Canons (church law) of The Episcopal Church say this: “Members of the Vestry shall be elected at the Annual Parish Meetings from communicants in good standing in the Parish.”
What is “a communicant in good standing?”
It’s quite simple really. A “communicant in good standing” is someone who has been baptized (which makes them a member of the church) and in addition, is at least 16 years old, receives communion at least three times a year and has been faithful in corporate worship by working, praying, and giving for the spread of the Kingdom of God, unless for good cause prevented.
What training or certificates are required?
After being elected, vestry members are required to complete Safe Church, Safe Communities within 30 days of the Annual Meeting. Episcopal Diocese of Arizona Anti-Racism training is required in the first year of being elected to the vestry based on program availability.