Learn about how to prevent destructive conflict in meetings by nurturing a culture that promotes respectful communication and creative interchange.

First, be sure you have prepared well for the meeting. Setting up the Space Plan to have one or two people arrive early to prepare for the meeting. Their duties should include the following: Chairs should be set up in a way that is comfortable....

Planning well in advance enables leaders to relax and be more present at the actual event, in addition to creating a comfortable environment for participants. The following are nine key areas to consider in preparing meetings. Discern Who Needs to Be Part of the Planning and Carrying out of the...

If meetings are to be truly meaningful and transformational, it is crucial to involve participants fully.  Read eleven ways to maximize participation.

The practice of congregational polity dictates that the business of our congregations take place at congregational meetings. Learn how to hold an annual meeting and how to hear reports, elect new positions and approve the annual budget.

Learn more about the some of the basic components and concepts pertaining to meetings, together with the definitions of these terms.

Meetings are a central activity in the life of any congregation, and in large measure the successes and failures of a congregation hinge upon the effectiveness of these meetings. As religious liberals, we meet because we are committed to the democratic process and want to draw out the diverse

There have been many processes and methods that are based on the notion that there is collective wisdom that can be gleaned from the whole.

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....

At one time in our country people joined a religious community because it was expected that they do so. At the heart of what they sought within the community lay a societal norm and a sense of “Being Human Religiously” to quote James Luther Adams. They came seeking social and spiritual...

This webinar was created for new and reforming Committees on Ministry.

This 3-part webinar is a primer in what it means to serve on a Congregational Board, how healthy Boards function, and what are ways your congregation can function better.

Larry Ladd shares his wisdom from years of consulting with not-for-profit boards.

Congregational boards hold the authority and responsibility for the congregation as an institution, as designated in the bylaws.

The opportunity is great in our congregations for rumors, miscommunication, gossip and, of course, conflict. Examine the barriers to open communication processes and will explore ways in which lay and ministerial leaders can open up channels of communication and create transparent systems where...

Smooth and efficient meetings require planning, structure, transparency and practice!  It takes a lot of practice to be a good facilitator. Even more importantly, good facilitators don't go it alone--they ask other leaders to take on different roles to keep the meeting on schedule and on topic.

In many congregations, meetings are considered a necessary evil.  It doesn't have to be that way.  Learn spiritual and practical ideas for running efficient, effective and faith-based meetings

Congregational budget-makers frequently divide into two camps that approach the task in different ways. The first camp is likely to include children of the Great Depression, experts in finance, elementary school teachers, and persons anxious about their own money situation....

When you understand the purpose of governance and what it needs to be effective, your work as a board becomes much clearer. 

represent their congregation at General Assembly by serving as delegates and voting in General Session (aka "Previously Plenary" aka "GenSesh" aka the way we conduct the business of the association)? Talk to your congregation's leaders as soon as you can to start the process. They may be able to...