As was mentioned in the last article, each part of the upcoming liturgy has a meaning. From the vestments and robes worn, things presented, hymns and scriptures selected, to our position and the prayers we pray.
Today I want to highlight the role of the wardens and how we honor their authority. In the Anglican tradition there is the Senior (or Rector’s) Warden and the Junior (or People’s) Warden. At St. Anselm the Sr. Warden is selected by the Rector and the Jr. Warden is elected by the sitting Vestry (who have been elected by the congregation). The Wardens together are the pinnacle of authority for the Parish Church in “things temporal” (property, assets, etc.). Together they represent the Vestry to the Bishop and Rector. Liturgically their position marked by 1) the robes they wear, 2) Their place in the processions and 3) where they sit for festal services and formal occasions. They traditionally sit in the back pew – the Sr. Warden sits on the right and the Jr. Warden on the left keeping a watchful eye on the congregation.
Today you will see them in ceremonial robes which have been supplied from Nigeria by The Rev. and Mrs. Joshua G. Ajayi. This tradition died away in America but is a noble one which we are bringing back to better demonstrate the dignity of the lay leadership. (Plus, they really look cool). In the future you will see them in different colors, to match the seasons worn only by the wardens.
On Sunday the Wardens will hold a ceremonial key. On it the St. Anselm seal is emblazoned. It will be given to the Bishop by the Jr. Warden at the front door as a symbol of their acknowledgement of his spiritual authority. The bishop will return it back to the Sr. Warden who then will give it to the Rector later at his Institution recognizing that he is the spiritual authority as the bishop’s local representative. They give the keys also as a physical reminder that the church’s doors should be “open to all, that many would come to know the good news of salvation in Jesus Christ.” (BCP, 519).
