Resource Chapter: Ch. 4: Board-Led Governance

Smaller congregations actually need good governance more, not less. How boards of smaller congregations can delegate authority effectively even with limited staff.

Leaders have an obligation to take wise risks in service of mission, not simply avoid risk. How boards can discern when risk-taking is faithful leadership.

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

What boards should focus on during periods of rapid, unpredictable change: keeping eyes on mission and long-term direction while delegating day-to-day management.

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.

Defines the core competencies of an effective congregational governing board, distinguishing governance tasks from management tasks.