PARISHES are still at the heart of community life in Jersey and although established religion is not the force that it once was, our 12 parish churches are far more than mere historical monuments.

Equally, the post of Rector retains its importance and pertinence, even if the substantial power once associated with the position is now much diminished.

It was not until 1948 that the 12 Rectors lost their ex-officio seats in the States, which is perhaps a measure of Jersey’s innate conservatism. Today, however, the Island will witness a development which, if not quite as dramatic as the restriction of the Anglican Church’s secular influence in the post-war political reforms, is just as ground-breaking.

At a service in St Martin’s Parish Church, the Rev Gerry Baudains will become the Island’s first female Rector. She will be welcomed into the role not only by the Dean of Jersey, the Very Rev Bob Key, but also by the Queen’s representative in the Island, the Lieutenant-Governor, Sir John McColl, whose presence will be indicative of the continuing constitutional significance of the rectorate as this small but significant piece of Island history is made.

Mrs Baudains has already looked after St Martin on a temporary basis for the past year, but her permanent appointment is an endorsement of the principle that women priests have a full part to play in the church – and, indeed, the community – in Jersey. It also serves as a reminder that, quite rightly, gender equality is now a potent force in even the most traditional areas of Island life.

There can be little doubt that Mrs Baudains will be fully aware of her responsibilities – she has, after all, been exercising them for many months already – but these extend further than many might imagine. The religious dimension of the job is obvious and so, too, is the pastoral care that is due to parishioners, but a Rector must also serve as a counsellor to the parish constable and other parish officials and is first in line among the custodians of the parish church.

The JEP wishes Mrs Baudains every success in her role. We also hope that she derives a great sense of satisfaction from serving her parish in a capacity with ancient roots which nevertheless has continuing relevance in the modern world.