From the CEO's Blog:
Law AND Order – church governance
This elective at the May AND Festival featured Joel Plotnek with guest Murray Baird, the incoming ACNC (Australian Charities and Not-For-Profits Commission), Assistant Commissioner – General Council.
The word “govern” comes from the Greek word kubernao, to steer or pilot a ship. Plato was the first to use govern as a metaphor in his Republic, which he applied to the philosopher-king steering the ship of state.
So where are we steering the ship and how do we get there? Churches are called to a unique mission by Christ: the great commission. But the vision for each church requires prayerful discernment.
But our churches are all different! Great. This helps determine our governance shape. Things like leadership style, vision, size, life cycle and culture.
Key elements that should form the backbone of your church governance regardless of its shape are:
- discern direction
- build structure
- commit to accountabilities
- communicate to stakeholders
Good church governance is a world…
