Sociocracy Resources for Dynamic Governance

By Renee Ruchotzke

Also known as Dynamic Governance, this model offers a flattened, responsive, and more inclusive structure that aligns well with the principles of adrienne maree brown's Emergent Strategy. Congregations that wish to dismantle White Supremacy in their institutions are looking into this model.

We recommend that congregations start small by developing the practice of using discernment circles (see the resources under "Contents" below) for important discussions for boards, teams, and committees before thinking about implementation of Sociocracy as an overall governance structure.

What is Sociocracy?

This is a 18 minute introduction into sociocracy (aka Dynamic Governance) produced by Sociocracy For All. It covers circles and roles, meetings and consent, feedback and selection processes.

Shared Leadership with Circles

Renee Ruchotzke

From LeaderLab

How might we create communities where each member can contribute equitably in service of mission and vision? Circles are an ancient tried-and-true practice.
$color sine waves refracted through concentric water ripples$

Circle Processes: A Continuum

Renee Ruchotzke

From LeaderLab

This resource may be helpful in understanding and using different kinds of circles in your congregation, and the kind of practice and training that are needed for each.
Create a Shared Understanding Before Making Decisions

Renee Ruchotzke

From LeaderLab

Improve the quality of your process by taking time to create a shared understanding of all of the things that should be taken into consideration.
Discernment Circle Training

Renee Ruchotzke, Patricia Infante

From LeaderLab

Learn how to use discernment circle practices for complex decisions in your committees and teams.
Characteristics of Decentralized Governance
From LeaderLab

Practical Decision Making How a congregation makes decisions should reflect all the characteristics of a free church. Respectful participation, democratic values, and reference to common principles and mission should be common in our practices and most clearly evident in congregational meetings....
Get Input from Your Communities of Communities When Developing Guiding Documents

Renee Ruchotzke

From LeaderLab

When your congregation is developing or revisiting "guiding documents" for leaders that are endorsed by the congregation as a whole (e.g....
Sociocracy Bibliography
From LeaderLab

Books, training organizations, and other resources for congregations exploring Sociocracy.
Sociocracy: Governing with Equivalence, Effectiveness and Transparency

Renee Ruchotzke

From LeaderLab

Learn how Sociocracy can use the wisdom of the circle to help our congregations thrive by decentering unhelpful power structures.
Widening the Circle of Governance in Congregations: Sociocracy

Renee Ruchotzke

From LeaderLab

Toward more inclusive and engaged decision-making with Sociocracy. This 12/3/2022 webinar recording offers an overview of Sociocracy and some real-life examples of it being used in UU congregations. This webinar was co-sponsored by Sociocracy for All. Some Theological Grounding for Sociocracy...