Describing
the Archdeacon…
The view of
the Archbishop of Canterbury
Archdeacons
have usually been described as the 'eyes and ears' of the
bishop. Their role in times past has sometimes been
limited to mains, drains and all statutory duties to make
sure that Churchwardens dance to the same tune. Thank God
our estimate of the archdeacon's office has developed. He
is rightly regarded as an essential element in the
corporate episcopacy of the
diocese; he has an authority of his own, subject to the
bishop's, and he is ideally placed to be alongside the
clergy in his Archdeaconry and to support them in their
ministry. Keep that model of Christ before you - and
never lose sight of the big picture. |