The Vestry is the elected governing body of the church. In accordance with the National Canons of the Episcopal Church, the Vestry acts as the legal and financial body of the parish.
At the Annual Meeting, a slate of four candidates is presented by the Vestry to the congregation. The candidates are confirmed on the recommendation of the Rector and Wardens. The slate of candidates is carefully chosen to ensure the Vestry has a good balance of skills, experience, and perspective.
It has been the practice of St. Bart’s not to have contested elections. This means that nominations are not made from the floor. If you are interested in serving on the Vestry or nominating someone for the Vestry, please speak to Father Jeff or the Rector's Warden, by December 1 so that you can be considered for Vestry.
Important Dates & Times
The Vestry meets on the 2nd Tuesday of the month from 7:15 - 9 p.m.
Makeup of the Vestry
The Vestry is comprised of the Rector and 12 lay members including:
2 wardens:
The Rector’s Warden, who works closely with the rector, primarily in an advisory role. The Rector's Warden is also a Convention Delegate.
The People’s Warden, who works with the rector and parish administrator to coordinate care of the parish buildings and grounds. Also serves on the Memorial Garden Team and is a Convention Delegate.
10 members-at-large
Notes:
Clergy other than the Rector may attend meetings and participate in discussions but they do not vote.
The parish Treasurer and Clerk of the Vestry do not vote.
Each year the Vestry presents 4 new vestry members to the parish at the Annual Meeting for a vote of affirmation.
Commitment
Vestry members are elected for a 3-year term and attend a monthly Vestry meeting, unless excused. Vestry meetings are on the 2nd Tuesday of the month, 7:15-9:00 PM
Participate in sub-committees as needed to accomplish Vestry goals.
Attend church most Sundays and participate in parish events.
Complete the Safe Church workshops required by the Diocese.
Contribute to the financial mission of the parish through an annual pledge.
Characteristics of Vestry Members
A healthy understanding of leadership.
Willingness to serve as a liaison between parish members, vestry and clergy in an objective and productive way.
Ability and willingness to discuss sensitive information appropriately.
Commitment to healthy communication while avoiding the “Triangulation Trap.”
Willingness to give of their time and talent to help lead and guide St. Bart’s.
Roles and Responsibilities
People often have questions about the role of the Vestry and the role of the Rector.
Following is an overview of the responsibilities shared by both the Vestry and the Rector, responsibilities of the Vestry and responsibilities of the Rector:
Shared Responsibilities
• Work together to promote the spiritual welfare of the parish.
• Oversee an effective stewardship program that ensures adequate funding.
• Ensure effective and timely parish communication by listening to all voices.
• Establish and monitor ministries and services.
• Communicate with the community outside of St. Bart’s.
• Advocate for St. Bart’s as a whole.
• Practice healthy and honest communication with the parish and leaders.
Vestry Responsibilities
• Create and manage the budget of the parish.
• Oversee and maintain the parish buildings and grounds.
• Provide leadership within the parish and help to fill parish leadership positions.
• Serve as a “Council of Advice” for the Rector.
Rector Responsibilities
• Lead and oversee the ministries of the parish.
• Plan and lead the worship of the parish.
• Manage the staff and leadership of the parish. (Both paid and volunteer)
• Manage the use of parish property.
• Oversee pastoral care.
St. Bartholomew's Vestry
Class of 2024
Ocean Eale
John Ratliff
John Rockwood - Rector's Warden
Janet Roth
Class of 2025
Mark Kliewer - People's Warden
Kathy Parenteau
Mary Meyers
Daniel Garcia
Class of 2026
Leslie Imes
Olivia Novak
Przemek Tokarski
Katie Sandmeier