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Practical Models of Church Governance

Description

This web resource guides congregations through different church governance models that align with their growth and ministry goals. With a focus on practical and theological reflection, Practical Models of Church Governance offers congregational leaders valuable insights into how governance structures can support their church’s vision. To support governance, this web resource offers various models, detailing their structures, operations, and challenges.

This resource includes guidance for elders, deacons, and church staff to help them find the right balance between governance and ministry. With practical examples, it explains how each model operates and the potential difficulties congregations may face when implementing them.

Features

  • An easy-to-navigate table that clearly outlines different models of church governance, with columns breaking down each model, how it operates, and the potential challenges.
  • Detailed descriptions of governance structures, including the roles of elders, deacons, and church staff.
  • Questions to guide congregational leadership in selecting the most effective model.

Recommended Audience

clergy and lay leaders, governance teams

Cost

Free

Practical Applications

  • Learn how to structure your congregation’s leadership team to align with its stage of growth and ministry needs.
  • Read the descriptions of each governance model to evaluate which would best serve your congregation.
  • Try implementing leadership structures based on congregational size and ministry demands.
  • Discuss the provided questions with your staff to evaluate your current governance model and identify areas for improvement.

About the Contributor

Contributor
Matt Burke

Senior Director of Resource Consulting and Grants

Matt Burke is the senior director of resource consulting and grants for the Center for Congregations. Prior to this role, he also served as the director of the northeast Center for Congregations in Fort Wayne and the Center’s Education Director statewide. Matt has a background in classroom, digital and experiential education and most recently served as the associate director of Learning Science at Kaplan Test Prep. He is passionate about using education to develop deeper faith in congregational participants.

Matt earned a B.A. in Religion from Mount Vernon Nazarene University and a Masters of Divinity degree from Asbury Theological Seminary. He enjoys spending time with his wife, Kelly, and his two sons, Silas and Levi. Matt also loves storytelling in films, books and music and finding the intersections of faith and popular culture.

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