Archdeacons’ Visitation Services are currently taking place across our diocese – an annual event that offers an opportunity to give thanks for the faithful ministry of our churchwardens and church officers.
These services are held each summer following the election of churchwardens at the Annual Parochial Church Meetings (APCM). They mark the formal admission of churchwardens to their office, with sidespersons and PCC members also making declarations of support.
Visitation services are an important part of the Church calendar and carry special legal significance. A churchwarden is not in office until they are officially admitted by an archdeacon. Historically, this moment also involved reporting on the moral standing of the clergy, the state of the parish, and the condition of the church. Today, the focus is on prayers led by the Deanery Lay Chairs, encouragement, and support, offering a chance to celebrate the vital role of churchwardens in parish life.
Recently, two such services were held in different parts of the diocese:
At Oldham Parish Church, Archdeacon Karen Smeeton (photo on left), supported by the Revd Daniel Ramble (photo on right), the Revd Canon Daniel Burton and the Revd Hannah Currin (centre photo), admitted churchwardens from Rochdale Archdeaconry to their roles.
At St George’s Church Chadderton Emmanuel, Archdeacon Karen Best (below left), supported by the Revd Dave Leaf admitted churchwardens from the Archdeaconry of Manchester to their roles.
These gatherings provide us with an opportunity to thank churchwardens and church officers who give their time and talents to support the mission and ministry of their parishes. They are also a valuable opportunity to meet together with others in their archdeaconry to share in worship and strengthen their fellowship. These services continue until Tuesday, 15th July 2025, more details are available here.
Thank you to everyone who plays a part in making all twelve Archdeacons’ Visitation Services possible.
These services involve a significant amount of planning and coordination, and we’re especially thankful to the PAs to the Archdeacons, whose hard work and attention to detail ensure everything runs smoothly. Their contribution is essential, and we appreciate all they do behind the scenes.
More photos are available here Click Here
Resources to Support Churchwardens
This Archdeacon Visitations News was handed out at the services and is available here.
This section of our website is dedicated to supporting church officers in their roles. From running PCC meetings to handling church finances, you’ll find helpful guidance here Church Officers - Diocese of Manchester.
The Churchwarden Yearbook is the annual diary and source of information for churchwardens in The Church of England and The Church in Wales. It provides useful information, resources, planning tools and more. You can order the 2025 and/or 2026 version using the form below: