GOVERNANCE & MINISTRY

by Dan Hotchkiss

How economic inequality among congregation members affects giving and participation.

A practical tool for assessing a congregation’s financial status.

The core factors that actually drive congregational giving.

How congregations can be transparent about their finances with members.

The board’s specific role in congregational stewardship and fundraising.

The transition from volunteer or lay leader to paid staff member in a congregation.

Returning to themes of mission, self-care, and sustainability after the exhaustion of the pandemic year.

The tension between craft (repeatable, honed skills) and creativity in ministry work.

Leaders in congregations often overreact to conflict and complaints, making problems worse.

How to handle established elder boards or legacy leadership bodies.