"Churchwardens' Manual their duties, powers, rights, and privilages" by the bishop George Henry Sumner gives insight into the way churches were run in 1890. It is no surprise that the church held much power during that time, however, the reach of its abilities had started to wane. With this new shift in power and perspective, Sumner offers insight into how clergymen could react and adjust, leading to interesting reading for modern audiences.

"outsider. This should never be done if objection is raised even by a single parishioner, because the appointment is technically faulty, and could be set aside on mandamus on the application of even one individual. If, however, the parish vestry are unanimous, and the appointment is desirable in other respects, no harm will ensue from the fact that the chosen churchwarden is technically ineligible. Unless and until his position is challenged, as by a mandamus, he will have the same powers and rights as any other Churchwarden. For the election of a disqualified person as Churchwarden is not absolutely ineffective, but the person so elected, when once admitted, can do all lawful acts belonging to the office until he has been displaced. The 90th canon of 1603 (which is the date of the setting forth of the existing code of canons) directs that "the choice of . . . Churchwardens, or Questmen, Sidesmen, or Assistants, shall be yearly made in Easter week." An election at any other time is valid in law. [6] It is supposed that the Churchwardens were called Questmen or Searchers from the fact that they were empowered and instructed to search for cases of heresy, or open sin, in their several parishes, and report them to [...]".

A new revised edition of the authoritative handbook for both newly elected and existing churchwardens.