Shiplake with Dunsden and Harpsden

It’s a very British characteristic to talk about the weather. But right now (end of June) it is most definitely the hot topic of conversation (no pun intended.) That’s because the temperatures are through the roof. Meltingly hot. Too much. Something else. Something else which is ‘something else’ is the commitment shown by many to the various voluntary roles they undertake.

Friendly, close-knit communities do not happen by accident. They’re built on the kindness and dedication of people who care about people. There are roles without a name which happen under the radar but are invaluable. Like the reliable neighbour who is always there to lend a hand, offer a lift, bring in the bins when we’re away. There are the temporary roles which enlist our help at one-off community events such as concerts or fundraisers. There are those which are more permanent, like running youth organisations, serving as church or parish councillors, editing the parish magazine or putting on a hat which says ‘treasurer’ or ‘secretary’ of a committee. And there are many more besides and we are grateful for each and every one. There is one particular voluntary role within our churches which I’d like to mention now, and it’s that of Churchwarden.

What, you may wonder, does the being a Churchwarden involve? (You may wonder the same about the vicar but that’s for another article all together!) It just so happens that the annual ‘Visitation and Admission of Churchwardens’ took place at Dorchester Abbey recently. This is often referred to as the ‘swearing in’ of Churchwardens and is attended both by them and their supporters from across the area. In this year’s welcome, the Archdeacon said: “This is first and foremost an act of worship, in which we give thanks to God for his faithfulness to us and to our churches. It is also an important opportunity for us to give thanks to and for our Churchwardens, and to thank them for their commitment, dedication and sheer hard work in serving our parishes in a thousand and one practical ways.”

Among the Churchwardens’ responsibilities named during the service are: “Sharing the administration of the parish and care of church buildings with the clergy. Promoting the mission of the Church, which is pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical, and caring for the property and ornaments of the church.” The Churchwardens solemnly swear to fulfil these duties ‘with the help of God’. This is followed with prayer and a directive to the congregation to welcome their Churchwardens with joy and treat them with love and respect. Plenty of applause follows and rightly so.

As someone who is still fairly new in post, I’m aware of just how much responsibility and extra work was required of Churchwardens during the vacancy, and which has continued during my settling in period. To them, the members of our PCCs and all who work so incredibly hard within our churches and across the community, a huge thank you on behalf of us all.

With every blessing, Rev’d Jane

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