DanH

Critiques SMART goals applied uncritically to congregational planning. Ministry goals often need to be inspiring and directional rather than narrowly measurable.

Organizations resist change because their core function is to repeat established behaviors. Change happens when a system believes transformation is essential for survival.

How congregations can manage the constant stream of new ideas from enthusiastic members without dismissing them or being distracted from strategic priorities.

Most bylaws contain too much operational advice and not enough about governance structure — who holds power, how leaders are chosen, how accountability works.

Experts decide how, but everyone should have a voice in deciding what the congregation aims to accomplish. Mixing these roles creates strategic dysfunction.

Explains the governance and legal implications of nonprofit status — no owners, accountable to a public mission. Helps board members understand their fiduciary responsibilities.

What separates committees that actually accomplish things from those that merely meet. Clear purpose, right authority, and goal-focused reporting.

Congregations sometimes over-invoke confidentiality in ways that prevent accountability and harm community trust. A nuanced look at when confidentiality is required.

Governance questions raised by online board meetings and electronic voting: legal considerations, best practices, and how to maintain meaningful participation.

Two powerful questions — ‘What would be GOOD about that?’ and ‘What would we DO about that?’ — that help boards find the right level of leadership.