Governance

How Churches Can Manage the Hidden Costs and Risks of AI

Many churches are already using AI through staff, volunteers, and software platforms—but often without oversight. An AI inventory, clear policies, and regular reviews can help church leaders manage legal, ethical, and financial risks while taking advantage of AI’s ministry benefits.

Tim Samuel

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.

Erika E. Cole

Church Formation Basics

Church formation basics gives leaders insights into how a church is formed, why it matters, and how it guides future decisions.

Lisa A. Runquist

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.

Attorneys Richard R. Hammar and Sarah E. Merkle

17 Changes Relevant to Churches in Newest Robert’s Rules of Order

Leaders should note these changes before their next official church business meeting.

Richard R. Hammar

Advantage Member Exclusive

Should My Church Consider a Merger Right Now?

On-Demand Webinar: The critical information church leaders should know if they are thinking about a merger.

Erika E. Cole

Part 1 of 4

Is a Merger the Right Next Step for Your Church?

A primer on how to do it right.

Erika E. Cole

Part 4 of 4

Finalizing a Merger

Moving through the final stages of merging churches—and other options if a merger is not right for you.

Erika E. Cole

Part 3 of 4

Deciding Factors for a Sound Merger

Picking the right leaders to decide vision, name, location, staffing—and more.

Erika E. Cole

Part 2 of 4

The Documents Needed for a Successful Church Merger

Discover the essential documents for a seamless church merger process.

Erika E. Cole

Add These Two Provisions to Your Church Bylaws Today

These key provisions for church bylaws allows for legally sound, virtual church meetings.

Frank Sommerville

A Downloadable Checklist for Church Board Members

Nine questions to help you understand your role and responsibilities.

James Cobble and Tyler Charles

Advantage Member Exclusive

Do Your Church’s Governing Documents Allow Virtual Business Meetings?

Answering this crucial question can help legally validate decisions made during the coronavirus outbreak—and beyond.

Sarah E. Merkle

5 Questions Churches Should Ask Before Holding a Virtual Business Meeting

How church leaders can ensure their decisions are valid if an in-person meeting isn’t possible.

Sarah E. Merkle

Rich’s 15 Must-Knows for Pastors: Governing Documents

Understand the importance of church constitution and bylaws.

Richard R. Hammar

Rich’s 15 Must-Knows for Pastors: Parliamentary Procedure

Learn the basics of running church meetings.

Richard R. Hammar

Rich’s 15 Must-Knows for Pastors: Incorporation

Learn the fundamentals of incorporating a church and how it affects church governance.

Richard R. Hammar

Rich’s 15 Must-Knows for Pastors

Insights to help you successfully navigate the complexities of church administration.

The Editors

Church ‘Policy’ or Church ‘Procedure’? Knowing the Difference

A church business manager shares best practices learned through the process.

Mark Simmons

Taking a Church Vote in 5 Easy Steps

What you need to know to keep a meeting moving along.

Sarah E. Merkle

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