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.
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.
Contents
Shared Leadership with Circles
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.
Circle Process Continuum
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.
Picture Forming
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
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....
Community Input Guiding Documents
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 Rau Workshop
From LeaderLab
Learn how Sociocracy can use the wisdom of the circle to help our congregations thrive by decentering unhelpful power structures.
Widening Govenance Webinar
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...
Get a print-friendly version of Sociocracy Resources , including all sub-pages.