First “Wardens Day” Empowers & Encourages Local Leaders Around the ADNE
Josh Vanada
Rev. Canon Ross Kimball
On Saturday, March 11, Canon Ross, and Diocesan Coach, Josh Vanada, led an informative and empowering training session for the ADNE’s Senior and Junior Wardens. The inaugural event welcomed church leaders from all over the ADNE, from as far away as Delaware, to All Saints Anglican Cathedral in Amesbury, MA.
Beginning with Morning Prayer, the day continued with a training session covering a wide range of topics, including the role of the Rector, the role of the Vestry, the Wardens’ unique relationship with the Rector and Vestry, effective strategic planning rhythms, effective ways to have difficult conversations, and tools for leading effective meetings.
As part of the ADNE priority of equipping and developing ordained and marketplace leaders, a time of question and answer was held after lunch, where wardens were able to ask for advice, listen to how their brothers and sisters from other churches were navigating similar issues, and provide helpful feedback to Bishop Andrew, Canon Ross, and Josh on how the diocese can continue to support and empower their churches to share the transformative and empowering love of Jesus Christ in their backyards.
The day culminated with a Eucharistic service, which Bishop Andrew presided over. He offered an inspiring message to the Wardens gathered, reminding them who Jesus really is, how he sees the very best in us, and how these truths fuel and inspire our leadership in the church. While the Eucharist was being distributed, Bishop Andrew prayed for those desiring prayer. He also stayed after the service and was joined by Canon Ross, as they prayed with others.
The day was very positively received by the Wardens, who found it to be a welcome flow of information on how they can best serve the church. Here is what a few attendees had to say about their time:
Dear Canon Ross & Elena, I want to thank you both for your parts in the delightful and very worthwhile day we had together at Wardens' Day this past Saturday. Ross, the day was well-organized, had valuable content and, even more important, was a spiritually enriching experience. Your and Josh's leadership excelled, and, of course, Bishop Andrew's participation was a genuine blessing. Elena, thank you for all you did to prepare and make this such an enjoyable experience.
From Mark Hanchett, Jr. Warden, Christ the Redeemer, Danvers, MA:
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“I found the day very helpful.”
From Kyle Hubbard, Sr. Warden, Incarnation Church, Manchester, NH:
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Jeri, our Senior Warden, was really blessed at this conference. She gave the vestry a run down of it last night. Thank you for doing this…
From Rev. Bill Blomquist, Rector, Andover Community Church
It truly was a beautiful day for the leadership of the church of Jesus Christ in New England to come together to be nourished, informed, blessed, and honored. Planning for the 2nd Annual Warden’s Day is already underway, and is scheduled for late February 2024.
