The governing council of an Episcopal congregation is called the "vestry." The term originates from a room within or attached to a church which is used to store vestments and other items used in worship. Since it was large enough to allow those using vestments to change into them, in England and elsewhere it was often used for meetings dealing with the administration of the local parish.

Vestry Rotation
Pursuant to vestry action in November, 1999, and coming into effect at the close of the Annual Meeting on January 9, 2000, we have established a system of vestry rotation in order to encourage more people to assume an active role in the leadership and direction of this parish church. Under the terms of that resolution, any member of the vestry may serve no more than two full consecutive three-year terms for a total of six years; churchwardens may serve two full consecutive two-year terms for a total of four years. A member of the vestry might thus serve six years in that capacity, and then be elected churchwarden for another two terms. Conversely, one might be elected a churchwarden for four years, and then be elected a member of the vestry for two terms, again for a total of ten years. According to the principle of a rotating vestry, a person who has served two full consecutive three-year terms as vestryperson may not be reelected to the vestry until one calendar year has elapsed following the termination of the prior term.

Qualifications for those voting in vestry elections:

•  You must be at least eighteen [18] years of age.

•  You must be a communicant in good standing, meaning that you have:

• received Holy Communion here at least three times in the twelve months immediately past
• have been a financial contributor of record to the parish, also for the twelve months past.

By canon law, the decision regarding a person's eligibility to vote in the annual meeting rests with the rector. Due to the absence of a current rector, should you have a question regarding your own eligibility, please speak with one of our wardens.

Stewardship 2010 - Vestry Testimonials

by Nancy Riley
I am lucky to be part of a wonderful church family, one that I have appreciated with Bill for the last 25 years. We were married in this church and 6 years later our son was baptized all by Fr. Latham, our daughter was baptized by Fr. James, and our son was assisted in his confirmation by Fr. Tom. These are all extremely memorable times, but my day to day involvement has been even more important and I have always felt the absolute desire to serve my church and give back to some of the wonderful family I have here. Contributing to my church both through monetary support as well as time and talents helps me keep what I consider my second home going. I have experienced that the more I give, the more rewards I have been granted. If you really look around, there are many physical projects we need to take care of, restorations that have been put off because of lack of funds. I, as a vestry member, am committed to fixing and improving our facilities, but am also very aware of costs and will do all in my power to keep those costs down. We need your help and contributions to make these improvements possible, as well as support the many programs, both through outreach and in-house, that is vital to keep this place the wonderful church home that we have all come to love.

by Aileen Evans
Just as I worked inside and outside my home to provide a nurturing environment for my family, I pledge my support of the very special place where my spiritual needs are met.

by Ruth Dubas
The first time I attended this church, I felt so welcomed. The love and friendship from this parish family I will never forget. I made a promise not to get involved right away, to worship and listen to God's word. It only lasted a short time. We have many ministries: Christian formation, youth programs, and much more. This is my parish family; I will give of my time, talent and treasure. This parish has been there for me in happy and sad times. I will continue to give of time, talent, and treasures. This is the Lord's House; we are here to take care of it.

by Nathan C. Allen
From the moment that my Family and I entered the Church of the Ascension we felt like we had arrived into a place we were meant to be a part of. From that first day we began to gladly show our support financially. When the opportunity to pledge presented itself there was no hesitation as we were willing to demonstrate our commitment to the Church, our new found Family.
I have a new appreciation for all that goes into making a Church run and all of the resources it provides to its members and community. I believe this parish has given me a feeling of warmth and of fellowship with the parishioners I have met since becoming a member. My financial support is the least I could do in giving something back, and hopefully will help to perpetuate its message with new parishioners entering the Church.

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