Laurie Kennedy“Chief Executives (Pastors) must run the corporation (church), but directors (Elders, Deacons, Leaders) must also know when to take charge, when to partner and when to stay out of the way”     (Boards that Lead by Charan, Carey, Useem).

Research suggests, less than 30% of churches are healthy. A well-functioning, God seeking Board is critical to a healthy church. However, ‘playing nicely in the same sandbox’ takes effort, strategy and a few rules.

Board Members of healthy churches:

  1. Speak with one voice or they don’t speak.
  2. Lead the Vision like God led the Israelites.
  3. Have authority while at the Board table, yet are volunteers at all other times.
  4. Reconcile differences while working toward unity and don’t hold grudges.
  5. Govern in sync, demonstrating spiritual leadership for the staff.
  6. Advise, encourage and as requested, provide input on strategic decisions.
  7. Ensure Bible Study, personal sharing and prayer are integral to every Board Agenda.
  8. Prayerfully look ahead, governing their churches to achieve positive results.
  9. Make critical decisions that move the church to a Christ like influence.

“To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed; Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers-not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.  And when the Chief Shepherd appears you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.” (1 Peter 5:1-7 NIV)

“Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone.” (Titus 3:1-2 NIV).

Leadership is Board members accomplishing God’s vision by leading collectively as a team.

Yours in Service,

Laurie D. Kennedy
Leadership Coach
Jethro Group
ldkjethrogroup@gmail.com