What is a Verger?
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”
Colossians 3:23-24, NIV
It has been a privilege to serve our Clergy, Parishioners, Staff and St. Martin’s Church for the past 16 years as Worship Services Coordinator. On Sept. 10, 2023, I was honored to be appointed by the Rev. Dr. Russell Levenson, Jr. and installed as Verger at St. Martin’s Episcopal Church.
What is a Verger you may ask? Historically, there is no definitive documentation of the office of Verger. However, there is evidence of Vergers serving as far back as the 12th century in Rochester, Lincoln, Exeter and Salisbury cathedrals.[1] Before there were paved streets, concrete sidewalks and highways, church processions walked through towns that were also occupied by untamed animals and unruly humans. The Verger walked before the Bishop or church officials, swinging a staff, or mace called a “virge,” in the role of “Protector of the Procession” and cleared a pathway for the procession as it made its way to the church.
The title “Verger” originates from the Latin, virga, meaning “rod” or “staff.” If a Verger carries a virge, there is usually a cross or other Christian symbol at one end. Another variation of a virge is a “beadle,” having a longer staff and used to lead academic processions.[2]
In addition to leading the procession into worship, other responsibilities of the Verger include overseeing the order of worship services, preparing the liturgy, maintaining the sacristy and ceremonial equipment, serving as an usher for dignitaries and even grave digging![3]
Although I am grateful I am not required to dig graves at St. Martin’s, I assist with interments, memorial and funeral services, special services and weddings as the Worship Services Coordinator because I continue to fulfill these responsibilities. Overseeing our Sunday ministries allows me to serve with so many wonderful Parishioners who are dedicated to supporting our outstanding worship services by serving as ushers, members of the Altar Guild, lay readers or chalice bearers and acolytes.
It has been an adjustment for me to move from working behind the scenes to leading the procession into the Nave on Sunday mornings as your Verger. With God’s help, I respectfully serve in this time-honored position as Verger at St. Martin’s Episcopal Church.
[1] Don S. Armentrout and Robert Boak Slocum, “An Episcopal Dictionary of The Church” (New York: Church Publishing Incorporated,1952), 538.
[2] Ibid. 542.
[3] Patrica S. Klein, “Worship Without Words: The Signs and Symbols of Our Faith” (Brewster, MA: Paraclete Press, 2000), 166-167.
