In the Episcopal Church, the vestry is the legal representative of the parish in all matters pertaining to the parish’s corporate property. Vestry members serve 3-year terms on a rotating basis, and new vestry members are elected by the congregation each January at the annual parish meeting of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church. The rector serves as presiding officer during vestry meetings, and the Junior and Senior wardens also serve in leadership capacities. The senior warden leads the parish between rectors and is a support person for the rector; the junior warden has responsibility for church property and buildings. A treasurer and a clerk maintain financial records and meeting minutes.
The responsibilities of the vestry as a whole include:
- to help define and articulate the mission of the congregation;
- to support the church’s mission by word and deed;
- to support the search committee when selecting the rector;
- to ensure effective organization and planning, and
- to manage the parish’s resources and finances.
Christie Scalera, Senior Warden
Christie Scalera grew up in Tallahassee, FL where she was a member of St. John’s Episcopal Church. After graduating from Florida State University and a 2-year stint as a social worker in Miami, Christie moved to Palm Beach County. During Christie’s 22 year membership at St. Andrew’s, she has served on the Vestry as Sr. Warden, was the directory coordinator, Centennial Celebration chairperson, co-chair of the Rector Search committee and was chairperson of Fr. Paul’s retirement celebration. Christie has engaged in multiple artistic endeavors, both as participant and spectator. She participates in FAU’s lifelong learning program and enjoys traveling, gardening, making jewelry, sports (she took up pickle ball last year) and anything grandchildren related!
Steve Ragsdale, Junior Warden
Steve Ragsdale, confirmed at St. Andrew’s on January of 2002, has served on the Vestry for about 10 years. He gladly served as Senior Warden and currently serves as Junior Warden where he has 9 years of experience. Steve also served on the Commission on Ministry with Father Paul, the altar guild, and now serves as an usher. He is the consummate volunteer, which even includes installing the markers in the memorial garden. Steve truly values the real church family at St. Andrew’s and is ready to serve in any capacity.
Chris Diserio, Treasurer
Chris, his wife, Talia, and their dog, Lucy, have been residents of Lake Worth Beach since 2013. Chris and Talia began attending services at St. Andrew’s in 2017. Chris earned a degree in Finance from the University of Illinois and is a residential property manager in Fort Lauderdale. Chris has been a volunteer at the Way Café since 2018.
Vestry Members:
Christie Scalera, Senior Warden
Steve Ragsdale, Junior Warden
Chris Diserio, Treasurer
Kelly Boudle
Michael Hoagland
Jean Howard
Chuck Jackson
Catherine Kollar-Dye
Brian McDonnell
Carol Sink
Ex Officio:
Fr. Chuck David, Care Committee