Practical ResponsibilitiesThe Archdeacon will initiate guidance and support as soon as a vacancy is announced. The parish has three particular duties during a vacancy:
Churchwardens should:
Filling the VacancyThe Archdeacon will guide the parish through the process in four stages: New Vacancy The Archdeacon will make contact/meet with church officers, and visit the PCC to explain the process and advise on the preparation of a Parish Profile. The PCC elects representatives at a ‘section 11 Meeting’ or equivalent; sometimes, but not always, churchwardens are chosen. Exploration Churchwardens may be asked to ‘host’ informal visits of prospective applicants, with the Area Dean Interview Churchwardens may meet candidates, but are only on the interview panel if elected a Parish Representative. Welcome Churchwardens attend the Property Secretary’s visit to the Parsonage House with candidate and Archdeacon, giving local advice where needed. They should liaise with new priest about moving arrangements, encourage welcome by parishioners. Take part in the Licensing Service, including words of welcome to the new priest (and family). |