As churches face discussions of expansion, relocation, merger, or closure the process can become excruciating. Many churches form a committee to consider these decisions, others use the elder team and sometimes it is the decision of the Pastor. In my experience, it is critical that these decisions are made by a selected group of leaders, call it a team or a committee, and then approved by the body. I saw a plaque one time that said;
"For God so Loved the world that he didn't send a committee."
While a funny statement, especially to those that work with church committees, it is important to recognize the importance of running these decisions through a group of individuals that have committed to make a decision that best positions the church to accomplish the mission and vision of the church. A committee or team must take the question at hand and look at it through a lens that asks the following questions:
1. Does this decision better allow the church to accomplish the mission and vision?
2. What is the cost of not making a decision, standing pat and doing nothing?
3. Can we afford to take this step? Especially in expansion or relocation you must count the financial cost?
4. Is this a missional decision or an emotional decision?
- Missional - every action and ministry function being done with a focus on the mission of Christ, decisions made with the mission of the church at the core of its purpose.
I have seen many churches run in circles trying to make a decision to move, sell, or change. These decisions can derail a church from accomplishing their mission and vision but they must approach the decisions from a missional perspective as if it is a business decision. When a church considers, expansion, relocation, merger or closure there will be members with differing opinions and emotion. Understanding your by-laws and ensuring that actions follow the by-laws and obtain congregational approval. Successful change whether it is a move or a change of worship style will be most likely when there is trust in leadership and approval from the congregation. This does not mean that the entire congregation is involved in every aspect of the decision process. Committees or leadership teams will best serve the church when they keep the mission and vision of the church in mind as they make these decisions.
If you need assistance putting a leadership team or committee together email me today at johnpmuzyka@gmail.com.
