Are the Members of the Episcopal Church's General Convention Committees Paid?
The short answer is: No, members of the Episcopal Church's General Convention committees are not paid. They serve as volunteers, offering their time, expertise, and dedication to the governance and direction of the church.
This volunteer structure is a key element of the Episcopal Church's governance, reflecting its emphasis on shared responsibility and lay participation. However, let's delve deeper into the financial aspects to address some common questions.
What about expenses? Are their travel and accommodation costs covered?
Yes, generally speaking, reasonable expenses incurred by committee members in attending General Convention meetings and related events are reimbursed. This typically includes travel (airfare, ground transportation), lodging, and meals. However, the specific reimbursement policies are established by the church and can vary slightly depending on the committee and the nature of the event. The focus is on covering necessary expenses to enable participation, not providing compensation for their time.
Are there any exceptions to this volunteer structure?
While the vast majority of committee members serve without pay, there may be very rare exceptions for individuals serving in specific roles with significant administrative or staff-like responsibilities that extend beyond typical committee work. These exceptions would likely be clearly defined and documented within the church's financial procedures. However, these are not the norm.
How are committee members selected?
Members of General Convention committees are nominated and elected through a process involving diocesan representation and broader church involvement. This ensures diverse perspectives and geographical representation are considered in the church's decision-making processes.
What are the responsibilities of these committees?
The General Convention committees handle a wide range of crucial tasks, including:
- Developing and amending the church's canons (laws): These committees play a critical role in shaping church governance and policy.
- Overseeing church finances and budgets: Financial oversight committees ensure responsible allocation of resources.
- Addressing social justice issues: Committees focusing on social justice advocate for the church's engagement with critical issues.
- Planning and organizing General Convention: The work of planning and running the triennial General Convention is substantial and relies heavily on volunteer committees.
The unpaid volunteer nature of these committees underscores the commitment of Episcopal Church members to shared governance and their belief in collective participation in shaping the church's future. This structure, though reliant on volunteer contributions, remains a cornerstone of the Episcopal Church's organizational ethos.
