For many churches, taking the time to develop and write down policies for using every area of the church property can seem like a tedious process. But not doing so can lead to problems within the church.
Here, the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions’ office of LeaderCare and church administration offers some of the reasons for and benefits of developing written policies.
Policies are needed
1. To establish the purpose of the church, ministries, programs, committees and teams.
2. To map a plan of action for the church by setting goals.
3. To implement the planned goals and objectives.
4. To help members see church life as an opportunity to minister.
5. To involve all members of the church in ministering to people.
6. To guide in the recruiting and organization of staff.
7. To clearly delegate and allocate authority and responsibility.
8. To coordinate all experiences and activities so they are supportive of each other as well as the church’s mission.
9. To guide decision-making.
10. To motivate paid and volunteer staff.
11. To evaluate outcome versus purpose.
The benefits
1. Policies save time.
a) Policies avoid repeated discussions on the same issue and keep leaders, committees and the church from remaking the same decisions. b) Policies may be referred to without having to stop and make decisions or locate and consult decision makers.
2. Policies allow anonymous queries.
3. Policies reduce the need for oral instructions.
4. Written policies are remembered longer and more accurately.
5. Policies save money by maintaining efficient use of resources.
6. Policies provide guidance, stability and consistency.
7. Policies increase compliance with church policy.
8. Policies greatly reduce misunderstanding (decisions are based on principles, not people).
a) Policies give personal freedom by removing stress.
b) Burden and blame is lifted from individuals who must explain the policy and shifted to the congregation where it belongs.
c) The minister or administrator is removed from the role of villain.
9. Policies are fair to all.
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