The Vestry includes the Rector, The Rev. Ann Ritonia (pictured above), who serves as the presiding officer, and an elected group of parish members. Together, this group is the legal governing and decision making body of a parish with regard to all matters pertaining to the church and its operations. As the presiding officer, the Rector only votes on matters when there is a tie among the other Vestry members. Vestry duties include approving the budget, making policies and supporting the mission of the congregation through spiritual leadership. At large churches, such as St. John’s, this includes strategic planning and oversight. Operational decisions are left to the Rector, staff and commissions. The strategic work of the Vestry, in collaboration with the Rector, includes identifying goals, opportunities, and challenges; creating a strategic vision; monitoring steps toward implementing the vision; overseeing financial health and progress; developing leadership in commissions and committees; and communicating with the parish.