Equipping Your Church Board for Long-Term Success
Equipping church board members for effective, long-term service.
Boards
Court Cannot Rule on Sexual Harassment Claims from Church Employees
Ohio case shows ministerial exception can block sexual harassment claims brought by ministers against their churches.
Part 5 of 5
Running a Virtual Church Business Meeting
A quick guide to conducting church business virtually.
Part 4 of 5
Taking Minutes at a Church Business Meeting
How to properly document the official actions taken at a meeting.
Part 3 of 5
Voting at a Church Business Meeting
Four primary methods of voting that members and leaders should understand.
Part 2 of 5
Making Motions at a Church Business Meeting
Four questions to help ensure your motions follow proper parliamentary procedure.
Part 1 of 5
Preparing for a Church Business Meeting
How to structure effective, legally sound meetings—and set their agendas.
A Church’s Insurer Was Not Obligated to Provide a Legal Defense for Congregant Facing a Lawsuit
Defamatory remarks made by a lay member on social media were not authorized by the church and therefore not covered by its insurance policy.
The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill and What You Should Consider Before Changing Your Bylaws, with Guest Mike Cosper
Why a shift in church governance can lead to unexpected results.
The Dangers of a Quiet Governance Change
Subtly shifting who has authority to make key decisions in your church may make sense—but may also erode congregational trust.
How To Ensure a Smooth Succession, with Guest Bishop Ralph Dennis
A plan can make all the difference, so why are leaders hesitant to create one?
Why Church Meetings Go Off the Rails
An interview with parliamentary procedure expert attorney Sarah Merkle.
Board Possessed Legal Authority to Fire Its Pastor
State nonprofit corporation law factored heavily in the court's ruling.
On-Demand Webinar
The Basics of Running a Legally Sound Church Business Meeting
Attorneys Richard Hammar and Sarah E. Merkle discuss best practices for implementing and following parliamentary procedures.
17 Changes Relevant to Churches in Newest Robert’s Rules of Order
Leaders should note these changes before their next official church business meeting.
Recommended Reading
Getting Meetings Right
Online or in-person, understand what churches need to know to conduct legally sound meetings.
50-State Public Accommodations Laws Report
How statutes and court decisions across the country do - or don't affect churches
Do We Know When to Hire an Attorney?
Take this True/False quiz to find out.
Board Member Checklist
Nine questions to help you understand your role and responsibilities.
Your Complete Guide to Virtual Church Meetings
A toolkit for legal and compliant business meetings