Vergers' Guild Board Gathers in March and April of 2012

Meeting in Summit, New Jersey were (left to right) Margaret McLarty, Cheryl Cantrall, the Rev. Matthew Corkern, Pat Allen, David Jette, Scott Smith, Duke DuTeil, Kate Pendzuk, and Bill Gleason (not pictured: Bill White)

In March, several members of the VGEC board met in Lakeland, Florida at All Saint's Episcopal Church, the site of the upcoming24th Annual Conference this October. The purpose of this meeting was to tour and explore the church, hotel, and the region. Conference co-chairs Cheryl Cantralland Sid Glynn were hosts for this gathering and facilitated several discussions about workshops, sessions, events, and excursions that will all be part of the conference.

"This year's event will focus on learning, exploring, and having fun, and we still have a few surprises that we are working out to make this year's conference really great," said Cheryl. She continued, "Sid and I are really excited to be welcoming vergers from around the country, Canada, England, and all over," 

Pat Allen, VGEC vice president and conference coordinator added, "The conference hotel, located one block from the beautiful and newly expanded church, will be a wonderful place to relax, reflect on our ministry, and to join in fellowship with all who come this year."

In April, the board gathered for their mid-year meeting in Summit, New Jersey, the site of the Rev. Matthew Corkern's installation as 13th Rector at Calvary Episcopal Church. Fr. Matthew was named Guild Chaplain at the 2011 annual conference in Cleveland, Ohio.

According to President Margaret McLarty, "Summit was a wonderful opportunity for the Guild to show support of our new Chaplain by assisting in the planning and implementation of the liturgy. The board was joined by vergers from the parish, the Diocese of Newark and the region in celebration of this new ministry for the community."

The Service of Installation occurred on Saturday, April 21st at 4pm. The Rt. Rev. Mark Beckwith, Bishop of Newark was celebrant and the Very Rev. Robert Willis, Dean of Canterbury Cathedral, delivered the sermon.

"It was such a joy to have family and friends, long-time associates, clergy, and vergers from around the country and world gather in Summit for this occasion," said Fr. Matthew.  "I sincerely appreciate the help provided by the vergers who were present in making this day a remarkably memorable event for me, the parish, and the community."

Click HERE for the online photo album of the event.

Click HERE for a six minute video/photo YouTube movie of the event.