INFORMATION ABOUT VIRTUAL (ONLINE) VESTRY MEETINGS DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC
In light of the continuing COVID -19 situation, and in particular the rise in cases as a result of the Omicron variant, a number of parishes have asked for confirmation that the authority to hold virtual vestry meetings will continue. Diocesan Council clarifies that Parish Vestry Meetings can take place online. All of the canons of our diocese must be followed but the meeting itself can be online. General provisions relating to Vestry meetings are set out in Canon 9 of the Canons of the Diocese, available here (pages 37-44). Incorporated parishes must also follow their Bylaws.
On January 19, 2022, Diocesan Council passed a Resolution affirming permission for parishes to hold electronic or hybrid Annual Vestry meetings in 2022.
The Resolution reads as follows:
Motion:
M/S: Vice-Chancellor/Chancellor
- THAT the Bishop’s Office may clarify to Parishes that,
a. any Vestry meetings (whether annual Vestry meetings or extraordinary
Vestry meetings) held in 2022 may be held electronically (including either
“fully remote” meetings or meetings with hybrid remote/in-person
attendance); and
b. for all Vestry meetings, including virtual vestry meetings, notice
requirements under Canon 9.8 remain in effect;- and the Bishop’s Office may, in consultation with Diocesan Legal Officers, provide
guidance to Parishes as to best practices and issues to consider, in relation to such
meetings.
Here and attached below is a link to a PDF of the January 21, 2022 one-pager "Considerations Regarding 'Virtual' Vestry Meetings. Please keep this handy for reference.