Verger Job Description
A verger is a member of a church staff. In the U.S. today, vergers serve primarily in the Episcopal Church, and perform a wide variety of support services for the clergy and congregation. The job often includes tasks traditionally performed by a sexton, as well as administrative duties.
Other People Are Reading
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Maintenance
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Church maintenance Church maintenance is a huge job. While many needs can be met with contracted labor, fiscal constraints often dictate that plumbing, electrical, custodial and other tasks be performed by a paid or volunteer verger.
Event Planning
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Church wedding All churches are expected and required to provide social events for the congregation and community. This includes weddings, christenings, confirmations and funerals. The verger acts as the logistical juggler for planning and carrying out the events, including food, announcements, service and setup.
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Emergency Response
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Candlelight During an emergency, the verger is a first responder on site. During a power failure, for instance, he will provide temporary lighting for congregants and clergy, until the city restores electricity. If a pipe bursts, he will turn off the water, clean up the mess and repair the damage.
Assistance During Services
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A verger, swinging his thurible, leads a procession. Carrying the processional cross high on a staff, or swinging a metal thurible on a chain to disseminate incense, the verger leads the clergy, choir and dignitaries down the aisle and around the church as required during services. In addition, he is responsible for meeting and greeting parishioners.
Acolyte Master
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Verger The verger in many churches is in charge of the acolytes. He sees to it that they know their duties, and keeps track of their vestments and paraphernalia.
Carrying the Verge
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Historically, a verger was responsible for protecting the clergy. He carried a long, heavy pole called a verge, which he could use to clear a passage through crowds, or as a weapon, if someone threatened the procession.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Tony Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Rick Audet Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Steve Jurvetson Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Busy again) (Athena Flickr Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Eneas De Troya Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Morten Oddvik
