Every parish has two churchwardens. The vicar’s warden is appointed by the vicar, and the people’s warden is elected by the parishioners. Both have the same responsibilities under the diocesan statutes, but, traditionally, they have distinct focuses. The vicar’s warden tends to have a particular focus on supporting the vicar, and the people’s warden often focuses more on the parishioners.

A people’s warden is part of the core team of people who meet regularly to make the big decisions of the parish – vestry. Their input should represent the needs of the average parishioner. They are the spokespeople of vestry to the parish, and the spokespeople of the parish to vestry. A good warden “needs to be observant and have their ears to the ground”, said Janet from Motueka.

For a people’s warden, this might look like getting to know members of the parish, being available to hear concerns, and bringing those concerns to vestry. They may need to handle sensitive situations and help to resolve disputes among leadership or parishioners. They might follow up with people they haven’t seen at church in a while, or suggest ideas to the leadership team about how to make people feel more welcome. “I try to ensure everyone knows they matter and are cared about,” Janet said. “I feel occasions to meet around food are important in community, so I have encouraged those opportunities.”

“To my mind,” Jan from Victory told me, “the most important aspect is watching out for the overall health of the church.”

A healthy church is made from healthy people, working together in good relationship, looking out for each other and aiming for a common goal – knowing Jesus and making him known. A people’s warden helps make sure that those on that journey are supported, safe, heard and encouraged.

So, what does a people’s warden look like?

A good people’s warden is fully involved in church life, willing to help when needed, and has good judgement. They serve with integrity and compassion. Both Jan and Janet used the words “approachable” and “discerning” to describe a good people’s warden. I also have the feeling that people’s wardens make great cups of tea.

If we’re running with the metaphor of being members of the body of Christ, and examining the anatomy of Anglican governance, then perhaps a people’s warden is the ear. As Janet said, they have “ears to the ground”. They listen to the thoughts and concerns of the parish without judgement. They hear the vision of the vicar and the opinions of vestry. 

How does someone become a people’s warden?

Anyone who is interested in the role of a people’s warden should put their name forward for nomination. The only requirements are that a person is on the parish electoral roll and not a member of staff. The process of nomination is as simple as filling out a short form – there’s one on the documents page – at least eight days before the parish has its AGM. Each nomination must be seconded by another person. 

A people’s warden must commit to a term of one year, and agree to adhere to the canons of the Anglican Church in Aotearoa, New Zealand and Polynesia. Upon the next AGM, the people’s warden may be re-elected.

If you are a good listener, have a heart for people and enjoy being involved in your parish, you might make a good people’s warden. Talk to your vicar about it!