What is a Verger?

       As a butler serves his master, so a Verger serves the House of God.

            The Office of the Verger has its roots in the early days of the Church's history.  The Order shares certain similarities with the former Minor Orders of Porter and Acolyte.  Historically Vergers were responsible for the order and upkeep of the house of worship, including the care of the church buildings, its furnishings, and sacred relics, preparations for liturgy, conduct of the laity, and the ever-popular grave-digging responsibilities.  Although there is no definitive historical examination of the Office of Verger, evidence from Rochester, Lincoln, Exeter, and Salisbury Cathedrals points to the existence of Vergers even in the 12th century.

            In modern times, a Verger is a committed lay minister a special calling to the ordering and conduct of the Church Liturgy.  A Verger’s primary purpose is to assist the clergy in conducting worship.  Regardless of whether one is officially identified, there is a Verger in every congregation.   

            Vergers can be full or part-time, paid or volunteer. Their duties can be purely ceremonial or include other responsibilities consistent with their knowledge of Episcopal liturgy, the Church, and the parish.  Many vergers in the Diocese of Atlanta also serve at the Cathedral during Diocesan services, in parish administration, on worship committees, as acolyte masters, sextons, or in other roles assigned by their priests or their Bishop.

A Verger’s presence is most obvious in setting up and marshalling processions.

A familiar sight at the National Cathedral and in English cathedrals in televised broadcasts of weddings and funerals, Vergers have become increasingly popular in small and large parishes for reasons other than just for show.  With a Verger, a priest can feel sure that all is ready for worship and concentrate on his or her responsibilities to preach the Word and administer the Sacraments.