Rector Search Committee News

The October 20 Coffee: Grounds for Discussion was hosted by Ginny Sharkey and featured a presentation by the Rector Search Committee. The search committee was pleased with the turnout and thrilled with the great discussion. Here is a recap: Difference between a Rector and Priest in Charge; summary of the process/flow chart; review of the parish profile; questions and discussion, and invitation to those in attendance to submit “interview” questions.

The biggest differences between a Rector and Priest in Charge are in the selection process and the terms of the mutual ministry. When calling a Rector, the Bishop screens candidates in accordance with the Parish’s stated requirements, the search committee makes recommendations to the vestry, who then select and negotiate with the potential new rector. The relationship between Rector and Parish is a strong tether that neither can easily sever. The Priest in Charge is selected by the Bishop and accepted by the vestry for a one to three year renewable arrangement. In brief – a Rector is for “life” while a Priest in Charge is short-term. This is a good time to remind all of us that a Priest and a Parish enter a “mutual ministry”, which is NOT an employer/employee relationship.

The process includes: vestry survey of the parishioners; meeting between the Bishop’s assistant and the vestry; vestry decision regarding a Rector or PIC or full-time or part-time; vestry appointment of search committee; search committee uses the survey results to complete the documents needed by the Diocesan Office of Transitional Ministry and the Parish Profile; six weeks posting on  the Diocese’ website and the national Episcopal website (step we are now in); Bishop’s screening of candidates; search committee’s screening of candidates, interviews and final recommendation to vestry.

At the conclusion of the Coffee Hour the search committee asked those in attendance to provide written “Questions you would ask a candidate.” The search committee received a great bunch of thoughts and questions. It was asked by those in attendance on Sunday to be given another opportunity to review the profile. To that end, please click here to view the profile. If you would like to offer your thoughts, please email Henry Zaborniak.

“O Spirit of God, we ask you to help orient all our actions by your inspirations, and carry them on by your gracious assistance, that every prayer and work of ours may always begin from you and through you be happily ended.” We ask for your guidance in calling our ministerial partner and ask that such partner hear your call. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.

Henry Zaborniak
On Behalf of the Rector Search Committee