LEADERSHIP AND DECISION MAKING in the Episcopal Church is shared by clergy and lay members.  This is true at every level: congregation, diocese and national church.  The lay members of a congregation call its clergy leader (Rector) with the approval of the Bishop.  Any staff members that may be called to serve a parish, clergy or lay, are chosen by the Rector with the approval of lay leadership.  The clergy team is assisted by a parish council (Vestry), whose members are elected by the congregation, as well as by a network of ministry team leaders.