Archdeacons’ duty statement

Description

This article outlines the role and responsibilities of Archdeacons in the Diocese of Adelaide. Itexplains their pastoral, administrative, and strategic duties, both regionally and within specific ministry portfolios, as well as the terms of their appointment.

General

The objectives of the office of the Archdeacon are to advise and assist the archbishop in the pastoraland administrative oversight of the diocese, and to ensure the diocesan vision is implemented through the development of sound ministry strategies.

Responsibilities of Regional Archdeacons

The following shows the responsibilities of regional archdeacons:

Visiting parishes and church institutions to offer care and support to clergy and lay leaders. Focus especially on those facing challenges or undergoing change.
Meeting annually with the Rector and Church Wardens to discuss parish goals, concerns, and feedback.
Inspecting registers, church buildings, rectories, schools, and other properties, and reporting findings to the archbishop.
Reviewing plans for building or renovations of church properties and providing feedback to the archbishop.
Working closely with the archbishop, senior staff, and Diocesan Council, sharing relevant updates from the Archdeaconry.
Notifying the archbishop if pastoral intervention is needed and keep in regular contact with clergy.
Representing the archbishop during special events and carrying out any tasks given by the archbishop.
Along with examining chaplains, assessing candidates for Holy Orders and presenting them for ordination.
Supporting the archbishop in shaping and delivering diocesan
Helping parishes transition between clergy appointments by assisting in clarifying goals and ensuring alignment with the diocesan vision.
Participating in Nomination Committee meetings and clergy
Working with the area dean to prepare the rectory for a new clergy family and assisting with any special requests.

Helping resolve rectory-related concerns during a priest’s
Mediating disputes within parishes when needed and proposing next
Communicating diocesan strategies to clergy and communities and arranging necessary meetings.
Organising and leading pre-Synod
Acting as the first point of contact in cases of clergy illness or absence and helping arrange cover.

Responsibilities of Portfolio Archdeacons

The following shows the responsibilities of portfolio archdeacons:

Leading and supporting ministry areas tied to their assigned portfolio across the
Assisting parishes in their portfolio area with leadership, guidance, and
Developing ministry projects in agreement with the Archbishop and involved
Working closely with the Archbishop, Senior Staff, and Diocesan Council to share updates and concerns.
Maintaining regular contact with leaders in their area and advising the Archbishop as needed.
Representing the Archbishop on special occasions and carrying out assigned
Helping assess candidates for Holy Orders and present them at
Supporting the Archbishop’s strategic
Assisting the Regional Archdeacon during transitions between clergy
Mediating parish issues and proposing
Sharing diocesan strategies with clergy and leading meetings when
Organising pre-Synod

Term of Office

An Archdeacon serves a 5-year term but may resign earlier. After 5 years, the term ends, but the archdeacon can be reappointed.

When a new archbishop is appointed, all current archdeacons are considered to have resigned. The new archbishop may reappoint or choose new archdeacons.