Is it because the pastor has always handled those decisions?

Because the board typically votes on them?

Because the congregation has historically been asked for approval?

Or because the church’s governing documents actually give a particular person or group the authority to make that decision?

Those are very different answers.

One of the challenges with church governance is that customs and expectations can develop over time.

A church may operate a certain way for years without anyone stopping to ask whether the leadership structure, bylaws, or other governing documents actually support that practice.

That may not create a problem when everyone agrees.

But when a major decision has to be made—or when leaders disagree—the question of authority suddenly becomes much more important.

That’s why we’re discussing this topic during our October 27 Legal Briefing:

Pastor, Board, or Congregation? Who’s in Charge?

We’ll talk about how churches should think about governance, leadership authority, and the relationship between pastors, boards, trustees, congregations, and governing documents.

This briefing is especially relevant for:

• Senior and lead pastors

• Executive pastors

• Board members

• Trustees

• Church administrators

• Operations leaders

• Anyone involved in major ministry decisions

October 27

12:00 PM ET

Live Online + Recording

$50

The goal is not simply to answer “who’s in charge?”

It is to help your leadership team understand where authority comes from and how your church should approach important decisions with greater clarity.

I hope you’ll join us.

P.S. If this is the kind of legal education your leadership team needs throughout the year, Faithful Foundations may be a better fit than purchasing individual briefings. Members receive access to the Legal Briefing Series and replays as part of their membership.

Blessings!