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Clerical Registry

Clerical Registry

The Clerical Registry


What is the Clerical Registry?

The Clerical Registry has been running since 1913 and is a group of (mostly) retired priests with a vast experience of Ministry who are willing to cover services, whenever needed, beyond their home parishes. All Registry members have the Bishop’s Permission to Officiate and are fully DBS checked (and therefore covered by your insurance).

Having received a request for cover we look at the style of worship in the parish and try to recognise particular preferences to provide the most efficient and effective service possible.

If you would like to become a member of the Clerical Registry, you will need to complete a Membership Form and a Payment Form.  These should be submitted to Angela Brown via the Clerical Registry email address below.


How Much Do Services Cost?

When a church is in interregnum or the parish priest is ill, the Diocese picks up the cost of the services, so the cost is covered by Common Mission Fund and does not cost the parish any extra.

When the cover is due to annual leave or absences through Sabbatical, the parish must cover the extra cost. The fee per service is currently £40.00 and a £5.70 booking fee per day. The parish must also cover travel expenses at either 45p per mile or full reimbursement for public transport costs.

These fees are the same for midweek and weekend/Sunday services.

The Clerical Registry will arrange payment to the officiating Minister and reclaim the costs from the relevant party.


How Can I Book a Service?

When you are in need of Ministry cover please contact the Registry via email or phone details are below.

Wherever possible please go through the Registry to confirm bookings rather than booking a minister yourself or make sure that if a booking is made privately the Registry is informed of any commitments that are made.


Occasional Services

The Clerical Registry can provide ministerial cover for Baptisms at the above rate and assist where necessary with cover for weddings and funerals.

Please read our updated policy on Who Can Claim Fees for occasional offices in the Diocese of Winchester.

Officiants must use the Occasional Office Claim Form to receive payment specifically for weddings and funerals. They should be completed and returned for payment to the relevant PCC Treasurer/Parish Office/Administrator. This does not apply to baptisms.

Occasional Office Claim Form Download