Churchwardens

Contact: Jane Hedgecock/Michael Bishop (Holy Trinity)
Mary Alexander/Mary Howard (St Mary’s)

There are four Churchwardens for the Parish of Holy Trinity and St. Mary's, two for each church, elected to serve for three years. Churchwardens have specific responsibilities under Canon Law of the Church of England including representing the Bishop in the parish and being responsible for the church buildings and contents. Among other tasks they are required to maintain clear and accurate records of alterations, additions and repairs to the church; to give an annual report to the PCC on the condition of the church in their care; to assume additional responsibility for the running of church business during any period when there is no clergy leader in post and for taking the collection at services.

On the less formal front, the Churchwardens have a stage-managing role, ensuring that all is set up and ready for the regular Sunday services and other additional civic services and celebrations. This will involve organising rotas, opening and closing the church buildings and ensuring that heating, lighting and sound systems are functioning appropriately. The Churchwarden is usually the first port of call before and after services for queries, information about parishioners, messages and complaints. There is also the important role of helping newcomers feel welcome at a service. But much of the work of the Churchwardens in this parish goes on outside of the Sunday services. Attending meetings of the PCC and other parish groups and working with the clergy team and members of the PCC brings a rich agenda of projects and plans: from formulating an environmental policy for the churches, reviewing ways in which notices and information are displayed through to helping to plan a Parish Day. It is a full and rewarding job in which each of us has the opportunity to contribute to the life and work of the Parish.