Being a ChurchwardenChurchwardens are the bishop's lay officers in a parish. It is a volunteer role, and Churchwardens are vital to the health and wellbeing of our church communities. The role of a Churchwarden is a statutory one, with ancient origins. The rights and responsibilities are laid down in ecclesiastical law under the Churchwardens Measure 2001. Their first and direct responsibility is to the Bishop, usually via the Archdeacon. Together with the parish priest, they are generally responsible for the day-to-day functioning of a parish. Today the role is very varied, but generally involves matters to do with church life, governance, buildings and worship. Churchwardens work closely with Archdeacons and their offices. Archdeacons’ Visitation NewsEach year, Ecclesiastical support Dioceses in the production of the Archdeacons’ Visitation News. This publication contains articles of particular relevance to the role of Churchwarden, to help support, guide and advise. The latest publication can be downloaded below. |
 Printable Version |
| Swearing In of Churchwardens 2021 The Office of Churchwarden is an annual office and it is a legal requirement for all churchwardens to be sworn in every year by the Diocesan Registrar or Archdeacon. |  |
| 2021 webinars to support Churchwardens The Archdeacons are planning a series of webinars which will replace our traditional Churchwardens’ Training Day. The webinars are aimed for all existing churchwardens, those new to the role as well as those considering taking up the role. | |
| Selection and appointment of Churchwardens Information on the appointment and selection of Churchwardens | |
| Requirements and key functions of a Churchwarden An overview of the key requirements and functions of a churchwarden. | |
| Safeguarding Responsibilities of Churchwardens This page highlights the key safeguarding responsibilities of Churchwardens as identified in the Church of England guidance report "Key Roles and Responsibilities of Church Office Holders and Bodies Practice Guidance". | |
| Further resources and support for Churchwardens There are lots of online resources to help you in your role as a Churchwarden, this page links to some of the main sites. | |
| Articles of Enquiry Each year, Churchwardens are asked by the Archdeacons' Office to complete the annual Articles of Enquiry. This page contains the information needed to help you do this. | |
| Institution and Licensing Services Diocesan templates for Licensing or Institution services. | |
We pray to be generous and visible people of Jesus Christ
Ely Diocesan Board of Finance is a company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales with company number 142183, and a charity registered in England and Wales with Charity Number 245456. The registered address is: Diocesan Office, Bishop Woodford House, Barton Road, Ely, Cambridgeshire CB7 4DX. All rights reserved.