This year’s meeting is approaching fast – Sunday, January 29, after the 10 AM service – and you are invited to join us! If this is your first annual meeting, or if it’s been a while, you might be wondering what to expect. Below we will answer some frequently asked questions about the annual meeting:
Q: What is the annual meeting, and why do we have it?
A: The annual meeting is an opportunity to gather as a faith community to celebrate the ministry and mission accomplishments of the past year, give thanks, and share the vision of the year to come. We also take care of some business, such as electing new church leaders (vestry members), thanking past leaders, and affirming our budget. It’s a great way to learn a little about how we are governed and to feel more connected to the church.
Q: Who can attend the annual meeting?
A: Anyone is welcome to attend the annual meeting, however, if you want to vote, you need to officially become a member. How do you become a member? Become a partner in our mutual ministry by making an annual pledge, which you can do here.
Q: What is a Vestry member?
A: The vestry is the governing body of the parish – akin to a “board of directors” – and is responsible for the fiduciary life of the parish. The Vestry is comprised of 15 members, who are elected to 3-year, staggered terms. During times of transition, the vestry leads the process of calling and supporting a new rector. Our Vestry members are dedicated to their parish and love God. The leadership of the Vestry are the Senior and Junior Wardens, the Secretary, and the Chancellor.
See who the current members of the Vestry are here.
Q: How many Vestry Members will be elected this year?
A: Each year, one-third of the vestry turns over as their 3-year terms expire. This year, we will once again be electing five new members to the Vestry to replace those whose terms are expiring. There are eight candidates to fill five positions, and you can meet them here.
Q: Who gets to vote for Vestry members?
A: All church members in good standing over the age of 16 are eligible to vote. To be a member in good standing, you need to be a regular contributor, typically by making an annual pledge, which you can do here. If you have questions about your eligibility, contact Gina Morgan at gmorgan@christchurchcranbrook.org