On Saturday, 29 July, over 40 churchwardens attended the first of this year’s Churchwardens’ Days. The next opportunity for churchwardens from across our diocese to gather is 23 September 2023.
The churchwardens present heard from Bishop Michael who reflected on the “pivotal role of Churchwardens" and how that fits in to the life of the diocese.
A range of speakers from support services and beyond, gave an overview of situations that a churchwarden might need to handle and how they could find the right support. There was also plenty of time for discussion, questions and coffee! Speakers included Diocesan Registrar Christopher Jones; Jacqui Keir-Bucknall and Leonie Jones from the Safeguarding team; Lead Giving and Funding Adviser, Gary Watson; Head of Finance, Matthew Pinnock and Marcus Booth, Church Underwriting Manager for Ecclesiastical.
One churchwarden said, “Thank you very much for a really good day on Saturday. The programme was most informative and helpful; the opportunity for networking important and the lunch delicious. I thought the bishop and archdeacons were inspirational and went home well motivated to carry on!”
Julia Hill, Head of Deanery and Parish Support, said, “It was wonderful to be able to gather together and to reassure wardens that they don’t need to know the answer to every question as there are people to support them. We had some really fruitful discussions. The role of churchwarden, alongside the incumbent, really sets the tone of a church, so it’s a vital role and we are blessed to have so many dedicated churchwardens.”
On churchwarden commented, “Thank you for organising an excellent day… I thought it was even better than last year which is saying something. Some of us have been wardens for a number of years and it was extremely helpful. I met some who are just starting out on the experience and I know what they heard and what they can take from it will be invaluable.”
Register to attend Churchwardens’ Day on Saturday 23 September.