The interdependence of our faith communities is integral to our polity (as is our independence). This is what makes us an Association of congregations. What can this interrelationship look like when it comes to congregational staff? Here are a few examples: Newly hired staff are welcomed and...

Covenant: A deep abiding promise, grounded in my deepest values, that I hold myself accountable to. Does your congregation suffer from constant, divisive conflict? Is your congregation looking to develop its first covenant to help members with healthier behavior?...

Avoiding triangulation will not eliminate conflict in a congregation but it will help keep it in the constructive and creative zone.

Systems theory is extremely helpful in understanding how people work in groups and why change is sometimes so difficult.

What can the congregation do in a crisis to avoid a crash during conflict? The solution mostly falls to the work of the driver of the car or the congregational leaders.

Many congregations have a committee to assist and work with the professional minister or ministers. An older model is the Ministerial Relations Committee, which tends to be an advocate for, and a support and guidance group to, the minister or ministers....

Whenever two parts of a system become uncomfortable with one another, they will turn their focus to a third person or issue as a way to stabilize their own relationship with one another.