Position Descriptions for Covenant Church Leaders

Transcription

1 s for Covenant Church Leaders Developed by the The Evangelical Covenant Church Revised April 2011

2 POSITION DESCRIPTIONS FOR COVENANT CHURCH LEADERS Developed by the of the Evangelical Covenant Church Revised 2009 Introduction There are many different ways of structuring for ministry in churches. Every church has need for leadership just as leaders have need for clear position descriptions. In fact, one of the best ways of increasing ministry effectiveness and ensuring satisfaction in the ministry of volunteer leaders is to provide clear expectations. Clarity needs to exist regarding: 1) the primary task of the leader 2) the specific responsibilities 3) the lines of accountability and resources available 4) time commitment involved 5) how this position fits into the mission and ministry of the church This resource is developed primarily to provide a model for churches, using the five areas listed above, with no existing position descriptions for their leaders. It can, however, also be used to evaluate and improve written position descriptions currently in use by churches. Some Options for Using this Resource There are at least three options for using this resource. The first, and highly recommended, is that it be used in the context of a leadership meeting or retreat with the purpose of clarifying roles, responsibilities and vision for church leadership. Option #1: In a leadership meeting or retreat setting, those who have been elected or appointed to leadership positions have opportunity to hear about the mission and vision of the church as a whole for the coming year. Boards/committees/teams are provided time to discuss how their particular role and mission fits into the larger picture. Individual leaders prayerfully consider their own ideas for carrying out their mission. This kind of prayerful, visionary planning brings encouragement to the entire leadership team. A two-hour workshop/retreat design, Roles and Responsibilities of Board/Council/ Team and Committee Members, is available to download. This experience could be facilitated by the pastor, the pastoral team, or church chairperson. The design might also be divided into two one-hour segments and incorporated into two regular meetings of the administrative board/council/leadership team. Option #2: Members of the board/council/leadership team, the pastor or pastoral team, or the Nominating or Human Resources Committee complete the position descriptions, using the templates provided. Each committee or task group would then follow through with developing objectives for this group, having been oriented either as a total group or individually to the mission and vision of the entire church. Option #3: Use these templates on an individual basis. As people are asked to consider taking on new leadership roles, invite them to meet one-on-one with the pastor or another leader in the church to work through the position description. This would be an appropriate option for developing position descriptions for those leadership roles held by just one person, such as the church chair or the financial secretary. This method would take longer to complete position descriptions for all ministry roles and might be more time-consuming in general. 2

3 Format Each position description includes five parts. 1) The Title: Gives identity to the role. 2) : States in a few sentences the purpose of the position and how it relates to the larger mission of the church. Space is provided for adapting this statement to your church. 3) Responsibilities: Lists, in general terms, the areas within which something needs to be accomplished in order for this position to be considered effective. Again, space is provided for adapting these statements to your church. 4) : Provides space for listing the specific ministries, people and resources for which this position is responsible in your church. 5) Board/Commission/Team Organization: Provides a place for recording to whom this position is accountable and how membership is selected. In the case of a board, committee or ministry team the names of the persons responsible for leading and guiding the ministry can also be recorded. In addition to the position descriptions the resource includes a worksheet entitled Opportunities for Our Church (page 7). The workshop/retreat design incorporates this worksheet but it is also helpful when used individually. The Opportunities for Our Church worksheet is designed to encourage prayerful consideration of the recruited individual s or board/committee/ministry team s vision for that ministry responsibility. In addition it will assist in planning for the year and in establishing a clearer sense of how this position contributes to the church as a whole. The worksheet could be printed as a separate handout or on the back of the position descriptions. A Few Tips on Position Descriptions and Recruitment Develop an attitude of bringing out the best in people rather than filling position slots. Choose to look at an individual s need for spiritual growth and learning, rather than your need to find volunteers. Encourage the exploration and development of spiritual gifts given to individuals for the sake of the whole church. Develop an appreciative climate for volunteer ministry realizing that support and recognition of volunteers is an attitude that undergirds all you do. Always help volunteers understand how their role fits into the larger mission of the church. Remember that clear position descriptions and expectations from the outset may result in more no s but those who say yes are apt to be more effective and more likely to continue. Remember to pray throughout the entire process. Other Related Resources Roles and Responsibilities of Board/Council/ Team and Committee Members A workshop/retreat/discussion design (included with this packet and available separately). The Covenant Book of Worship, 2003, Consecration of Church Workers, p This resource is available from Position Descriptions for paid staff positions Pastor/Director of Youth and Family Ministries Pastor/Director of Children and Family Ministries 3

4 Pastor/Director of Adult Ministries Worship Leader Position Description Basics (a suggested template and guidelines) Resources for Volunteering A bibliography with information on Spiritual Gifts Inventories, as well as other print and people resource recommendations related to managing volunteers and mobilizing the laity. Available from The Big Book of Job Descriptions for Ministry (Gospel Light, 2001 ISBN ) provides more than 200 ministry descriptions, and includes a CD-Rom. To learn more about any of these resources, contact the Evangelical Covenant Church at or christianformation@covchurch.org Permission granted for duplication of the contents of this downloadable resource for use in the local church only. 4

5 Church Position Descriptions The Evangelical Covenant Church Based on the Board, Council and Team Model Constitutions The following collection of position descriptions support the three model constitutions suggested for Covenant churches. Each description includes a definition of the primary task, a basic list of responsibilities, and some ideas related to accountability, membership, and leadership. A simple handout Opportunities for our Church (page 7) is also included to help each person evaluate his/her role in relation to the ministry description. In addition, a downloadable self-led workshop/retreat/discussion design is available to help the members of your administrative board/council/team evaluate their current ministry and create a vision for the future. This design can be used in a twohour format for an extended workshop/retreat or incorporated into a regular agenda for two or three meetings. Please note: Review all of the position descriptions and select the ones that best match the leadership positions in your church. Or, use the framework of the position descriptions and adapt them to best fit the needs of your church. 5

6 POSITION DESCRIPTIONS Governance 1. Council (page 8) 2. Executive Board (page 9) 3. Team (page 10) Administrative Positions 4. Church Chairperson (page 11) 5. Church Vice-Chairperson (page 12) 6. Financial Secretary (page 13) 7. Secretary of the Church (page 14) 8. Treasurer (page 15) 9. Vice-Secretary of the Church (page 16) Ministry boards/committees/teams 10. Adult Ministries (page 17) 11. Children and Family Ministries (page 18) 12. Christian Formation/Education (page 19) 13. Communications (page 20) 14. Compassion, Mercy and Justice (page 21) 15. Diaconate/Spiritual Life/Fellowship, Nurture, and Care (page 22) 16. Evangelism (page 23) Other 17. Family Ministries (page 24) 18. Finance (page 25) 19. Long-Range Planning (page 26) 20. Memorials (page 27) 21. Mission (page 28) 22. Music (page 29) 23. Nominating/Human Resources (page 30) 24. Pastoral Relations/Personnel/Mutual Ministries (page 31) 25. Properties (page 32) 26. Stewardship (page 33) 27. Trustee/Financial Management (page 34) 28. Women Ministries (page 35) 29. Worship (page 36) 30. Youth and Family Ministries (page 37) 31. Board, Committee or Team Chairperson (page 38) 32. Sunday School Director/Superintendent (page 39) 33. General Template (adapt for other potential positions) (page 40) 34. Blank template (page 41) 6

7 Opportunities for Our Church Worksheet or Guided Prayer Experience As you begin to think about the focus of your ministry, reflect for a moment on these questions. Your responses will help you think about the people you serve through this ministry role and create a vision for the coming year. 1. Who are the people you serve through this ministry role and what are their needs? 2. What in this ministry is currently working effectively? 3. What improvements are needed in this ministry? 4. What is your vision or hope for this ministry? 5. What first steps do you need to take in order to make this vision a reality? 7

8 Council (Based on Model Constitution Church Council) The general administration of the church shall be vested in a body known as the Church Council. In circumstances or where law requires action(s) by "Trustees" the council shall be known as "the Board of Trustees" and the members of it as "Trustees." The council shall also serve as a Board of Deacons to supervise the spiritual life of this church, as stated in 1 Timothy 3: Present church vision and ministry goals to congregation. 2. Supervise church membership, including recommendations relative to reception or removal of members. 3. Assist the pastor in nurturing the spiritual life of this church and in the service of communion as planned by the pastor, in cooperation with the worship chair. 4. Establish and approve administrative and program policies in conformity with the spirit of the church constitution. 5. Evaluate the total church program on a continuing basis. 6. Plan and recommend the annual budget and stewardship opportunities for this church. 7. Review and approve the schedule of church activities and personnel. 8. Appoint administrative committee members and church workers as defined by the bylaws for the administrative committees, as the council may deem appropriate. 9. Council members shall serve as chairs of the committees to which they are appointed and assume responsibility for directing all congregational activities which fall within that functional category, in cooperation with pastor(s). Specific Ministry Responsibilities Council Organization Accountable to the congregation through scheduled and special congregational meetings Membership: The council shall consist of the officers of the church (chair, vice-chair, secretary, financial secretary, and the treasurer) and other members as specified in the bylaws. The senior pastor shall be an ex-officio member of the council with voice and vote. Members are elected by the congregation. 8

9 Executive Board (Based on Model Constitution Board) The general administration of the church shall be vested in the Executive Board, the Board of Trustees, the Board of Deacons, and the Board of Christian Formation/Education. Each of these church boards shall report to the congregational business meetings of the church. The Executive Board shall coordinate the workings of the other church boards. Matters to be presented by the other church boards to the congregational business meetings for action must be first considered by the Executive Board. 1. Present church vision and ministry goals to the congregation. 2. Discuss and deliberate on such matters and problems that arise in the activities of the church, review the programs and ministries of the church, and coordinate and oversee the work of the other church boards, receive reports and recommendations, and take action as needed. 3. Ensure that decisions of the congregation are carried out. 4. Write and approve policies as needed to support the organization and ministry of the congregation. 5. Encourage representatives of various groups and organizations within the church to present concerns and issues to the board for consideration. 6. Appoint members to all standing committees and give direction to those committees. 7. Review and coordinate the church calendar. 8. In event of the resignation or death of an elected officer or board member, appoint a replacement to serve until the next annual meeting. Specific Ministry Responsibilities Executive Board Organization Accountable to the congregation through scheduled and special congregational meetings Membership: The Executive Board shall consist of the pastor, the chair, the vice-chair, the secretary, the treasurer, the financial secretary, the chairs of the other church boards, and the chair of Women Ministries. All except the pastor and chair of Women Ministries are elected by the congregation. 9

10 Team (Based on Model Constitution Team) The Team shall be responsible for building, maintaining and overseeing the spiritual welfare of the congregation and for directing and overseeing all ministries and business affairs of the church. 1. Present annual mission and ministry goals and objectives to the congregation and monitor Ministry Team progress. 2. Determine Ministry Teams needed to carry out the church's mission and ministry, and appoint appropriate leadership for the ministry teams. 3. Write and approve church policies as needed to support the organization and ministry of the congregation. 4. Be responsible for representing the congregation in certain staff relationships including: hiring and dismissal, annual appraisal, review and approval of compensation and other personnel expenses, establishing personnel policies, approval of changes in staff position descriptions and position descriptions for new staff positions. 5. Oversee the preparation and submission of a proposed budget to the congregation for approval and carry out the budget as approved or adjusted according to the bylaws. 6. Appoint a member of the church as Financial Secretary and Church Treasurer. 7. Annually appoint a team to review the financial records of the church and report such findings to the congregation. 8. Hear and respond appropriately to concerns of members. 9. Be responsible for church discipline as outlined in the bylaws. 10. Act as the trustees of the church for the advancement and protection of its assets. The Team shall designate those who shall be authorized to sign legal documents on behalf of the church. 11. Be responsible for action on applications for membership. Specific Ministry Responsibilities Team Organization Accountable to the congregation through scheduled and special congregational meetings Membership: The Team shall be comprised of not less than 5 or more than 9 Team members, one of whom shall be the Senior Pastor (ex officio). The Team may appoint other pastors or staff members as non-voting advisors, and may remove the same. The members of the Team are elected by the congregation. 10

11 Church Chairperson Lead and guide the administrative board/council/leadership team as it builds, maintains and oversees the spiritual wellbeing of the church and directs and oversees all ministries and business affairs of the church. Setting goals and objectives Initiating and authorizing plans Determining policy for the ministry of the congregation Identifying check points and monitoring progress related to ministry objectives set by boards/committees/teams 1. Help all board/council/leadership team members focus on their primary task. 2. Plan agenda in consultation with the pastor and chair all regular and special congregational meetings. 3. Plan agenda in consultation with the pastor and chair all meetings of the executive board/council/leadership team. 4. Meet regularly with the Pastoral Relations Committee/Mutual Ministry Committee and act as ex-officio member of all boards, ministry teams and committees within the church. 5. Maintain accountability to the congregation through scheduled and special congregational meetings. Accountable to Position elected appointed By 11

12 Church Vice-Chairperson of the Church Vice-Chairperson Work with the administrative board/council/leadership team under the leadership of the chairperson as it builds, maintains and oversees the spiritual wellbeing of the church and directs and oversees all ministries and business affairs of the church. Setting goals and objectives Initiating and authorizing plans Determining policy for the ministry of the congregation Identifying check points and monitoring progress related to objectives set by boards/committees/teams 1. In the absence of the church chairperson, set agenda in consultation with the pastor and lead any meeting. 2. Assist church chairperson in any way requested. 3. Chair the Pastoral Relations/Mutual Ministry committee/team. 4. Maintain accountability to the congregation through the church chairperson. Accountable to Position elected appointed By 12

13 Financial Secretary Receive, record and deposit all funds taken into the church treasury, and forward information to the church treasurer for use in support of the mission and ministry of the congregation. 1. Work according to the policies and procedures established by the Trustee Board or Financial Management Committee/Team. 2. Receive, record and receipt funds from all sources and report them to the church treasurer, Trustee Board or Financial Management Committee/Team. 3. Receive offerings collected during worship services and count them at the conclusion of the services, ensuring more than one person is involved collecting and counting the offerings. 4. Ensure funds are deposited in a bank as soon as possible after they are received. Deposits should be made within three days of receipt. 5. Establish a procedure to collect and record funds received other than through regular offerings, including funds received through the mail or electronically. 6. Produce individual charitable gift report summaries of all donations received during a calendar year and mail within two weeks of the end of that year. (Churches may choose to produce individual reports quarterly.) 7. Report regularly to the Trustee Board or Financial Management Committee/Team regarding total funds pledged and actually received for the year. 8. Report to the congregation at Annual Meeting regarding total funds pledged (if appropriate) and actually received for the year. 9. Inform and encourage regular, systematic giving by congregation through providing information regarding electronic giving. 10. Maintain confidentially of all financial information pertaining to receiving, recording and depositing of funds. (Based on Stewardship Starter Kit Job Descriptions, ECC) Accountable to the Trustee Board or Financial Management Committee/Team, the administrative board/council/leadership team and the congregation at scheduled meetings Position: elected appointed By: 13

14 Secretary of the Church Work with the administrative board/council/leadership team under the leadership of the chairperson as it builds, maintains and oversees the spiritual wellbeing of the church and directs and oversees all ministries and business affairs of the church. Setting goals and objectives Initiating and authorizing plans Determining policy for the ministry of the congregation Identifying check points and monitoring progress related to objectives set by boards/committees/teams 1. Record minutes and distribute copies to appropriate persons and groups for all general board/council/leadership team and congregational meetings. 2. Conduct and preserve all official correspondence. 3. Be responsible for the official seal and documents of the church. 4. Maintain accountability to the congregation through the administrative board/council/leadership team and the congregation. Accountable to Position elected appointed By 14

15 Treasurer Disburse all funds received into the church treasury in a responsible and organized manner with funds identified and bills paid when due, so that the mission and ministry of the congregation are supported and strengthened. 1. Disburse all funds contributed to the local church budget, keeping accurate records of how funds are spent. 2. Prepare accurate monthly financial reports indicating the financial wellbeing of the congregation. 3. Work according to the policies and procedures established by the administrative board/council/leadership team. 4. Participate in and report regularly to the administrative board/council/leadership team and appropriate congregational meetings and inform the congregation of specific financial concerns as directed by church leadership. 5. Ensure there are adequate records documenting the assets of the church for insurance and other purposes. 6. Make recommendation for the investment of excess funds (if any). 7. Ensure that all church property is appropriately covered by insurance for casualty and liability losses. 8. Ensure that all governmental taxes, reporting forms, and regulations are met on a timely basis. 9. Maintain confidentiality of all financial information pertaining to giving and givers. (Based on Stewardship Starter Kit Job Descriptions, ECC) Accountable to the Trustee Board/Financial Management Committee/Team, administrative board/council/leadership team and the congregation through regular reports Position: elected appointed By 15

16 Vice-Secretary of the Church Work with the administrative board/council/leadership team under the leadership of the chairperson building, maintaining and overseeing the spiritual wellbeing of the church and directing and overseeing all ministries and business affairs of the church. Setting goals and objectives Initiating and authorizing plans Determining policy for the ministry of the congregation Identifying check points and monitoring progress related to objectives set by boards/committees/teams 1. Record accurate minutes of the general board/council/leadership team or congregational meetings when the secretary is absent. 2. Maintain accountability to the congregation through the administrative board/council/leadership team and congregational meetings. Accountable to Position elected appointed By 16

17 Adult Ministries Address the concerns and conditions of adults in the congregation and community that they may grow in their understanding of God, themselves, others, and the world so that their quality of life may be improved through a personal faith and growth as a disciple. 1. Study the hopes, concerns and needs of adults in the congregation and community to determine how best to serve them and how they might best serve each other as Christian disciples and good neighbors. 2. Become familiar with the overall vision and ministry goals of the congregation and write objectives to help achieve these goals through the congregation s ministry with adults. 3. Write policies and procedures to guide the ministry with adults. 4. Plan and implement a varied and wide-ranging ministry with adults, including worship, study, fellowship, and service opportunities. 5. Identify, enlist, train and support leaders (e.g., small group leaders, Sunday school teachers, etc.) for the congregation s adult ministries. 6. Read and discuss resources for developing adult ministries, and participate in formational experiences. 7. Inform the congregation about the hopes and concerns of adults in the community, the objectives of the congregation s adult ministries, and the ministries available that will reach these objectives. Accountable to 17

18 Children and Family Ministries Address the concerns and conditions of children in the congregation and community that they may grow in their understanding of God, themselves, others, and the world so that their quality of life may be improved through a personal faith and growth as a disciple. 1. Study the hopes, concerns and needs of children in the congregation and community to determine how best to serve them and how they might best serve each other as Christian disciples and good neighbors. 2. Become familiar with the overall vision and ministry goals of the congregation and write objectives to help achieve these goals through the congregation s ministry with children. 3. Write policies and procedures to guide the ministry with children. 4. Help plan and implement a varied and wide-ranging ministry with children and families, including worship, study, fellowship, and service opportunities. 5. Identify, enlist, train and support leaders (e.g., club leaders, Sunday school teachers, intergenerational ministry team, etc.) for the congregation s children s ministries. 6. Read and discuss resources for developing children and family ministries, and participate in formational experiences. 7. Inform the congregation about the hopes and concerns of children in the community, the objectives of the congregation s children and family ministries, and the ministries available that will reach these objectives. Accountable to 18

19 Christian Formation/Education Provide formational experiences for persons of all ages so that they may grow in understanding of the gospel and become better equipped for daily living as Christian disciples. These experiences will include opportunities to explore God s Word, develop relationships, practice obedient living and worship both together and individually. 1. Study the hopes, concerns and needs of people in the congregation and community to determine how best to serve them and how they might best serve each other as Christian disciples and good neighbors. 2. Become familiar with the overall vision and ministry goals of the congregation and write objectives to help achieve these goals through the congregation s Christian formation/education ministry. 3. Define formational/educational ministries to accomplish the objectives. 4. Write policies and procedures to guide the congregation s Christian formation/education ministry. 5. Identify, enlist, train and support leaders (e.g., nursery workers, Sunday school director/superintendent, retreat committee members, etc.) for the congregation s Christian formation/education ministries. 6. Provide resources to support the formational/educational ministries. 7. Read and discuss resources for developing Christian formation/education ministries, and participate in formational experiences. Accountable to 19

20 Communications Develop and implement a communications plan so that church members and others in the community will become aware of the ministries offered, and understand and participate in the life of the congregation. 1. Become familiar with the overall vision and ministry goals of the congregation and write objectives to help achieve these goals through the communication ministry. 2. Write policies and procedures regarding congregational communications. 3. Oversee communication sent from the congregation to its members and to the community (such as church newsletters, websites, bulletin boards and displays, telephone contacts, s, direct mail and audiovisuals). 4. Coordinate all contact between this church and the media in the community (such as newspapers, web pages, advertising media, radio and television, signs, and billboards) except in the case of negative or damaging events at which time only the church chairperson or pastor should address the media. 5. Identify, enlist, train and support leaders (e.g., newsletter editor, webmaster, etc.) for the communication ministries. 6. Cooperate with the administrative board/council/leadership team to plan for ministry and benevolence promotions, using resources from the conference and Evangelical Covenant Church. 7. Communicate local news and information to persons responsible for the regional conference communications. 8. Inform the congregation about what is happening in the wider arena of the Christian church. Accountable to 20

21 Compassion, Mercy and Justice Assist congregation in identifying and addressing the concerns and conditions of peoples across the world as well as those in our own community in relation to human wellbeing, hopes for peace with justice, and environmental survival. 1. Study the hopes, concerns and needs of people in the area to determine how the church might best demonstrate Christ s love to them. 2. Become familiar with the overall vision and ministry goals of the congregation and write objectives to help achieve these goals through the compassion, mercy and justice ministry. 3. Guide the congregation in demonstrating love for all persons. 4. Read and discuss resources related to compassion, mercy and justice and participate in formational experiences. 5. Develop and implement study and action projects related to compassion/mercy/justice issues and concerns. 6. Engage in the local community to improve the quality of life for persons in need and to address justice issues. 7. Involve others in the church and community in justice ministries. Accountable to 21

22 Diaconate/Spiritual Life/Fellowship, Nurture, and Care Position Description Address the concerns and conditions of persons in the congregation and community so that they may grow in their spiritual life and become better equipped for life as Christian disciples. 1. Oversee the spiritual life of this church. 2. Become familiar with the overall vision and ministry goals of the congregation and write objectives to help achieve these goals. 3. Assist the pastor(s) in personal contact with members of the congregation, particularly in times of spiritual, physical, or emotional need. 4. Identify, enlist, train and support leaders (e.g., greeters, care team, prayer team, etc.) for the spiritual life ministries. 5. Recruit, oversee and make contact with other care leaders on a monthly basis regarding their contacts with various members of the congregation. 6. Become sensitive to the needs of visitors and create opportunities to help guide them into full participation in the congregation. 7. Interview applicants for membership. 8. Assist the pastor(s) in preparation and distribution of communion elements. Accountable to 22

23 Evangelism Ensure that the congregation reaches out to people with the good news of Jesus Christ and receives them into its care, so that these persons may develop a personal relationship with God and live as Christian disciples. 1. Become familiar with the overall vision and ministry goals of the congregation and write objectives to help achieve these goals through the evangelism ministry. 2. Write policies and procedures regarding congregational evangelism efforts. 3. Work with pastor(s) and administrative board/council/leadership team to make evangelism a vital part of the congregation s ministry. 4. Care for all members of the congregation (including those who are inactive), as well as persons who are not members of any congregation, helping them know and respond to the love of God in Christ, and accept Christ as their personal savior. 5. Work with all groups and persons in the congregation to keep an updated prospect file and provide for visitation ministries. 6. Set goals for congregational growth and plan specific evangelistic events and missions. 7. Identify, enlist, train and support leaders (e.g., special event coordinator, visitation and follow up teams) for the congregation s evangelism ministries. 8. Read and discuss resources that assist the congregation in its ministry of evangelism. Accountable to 23

24 Family Ministries Address the concerns and conditions of families in the congregation and community that they may grow in their understanding of God, themselves, others, and the world so that their quality of life may be improved through a personal faith and growth as a disciple. 1. Study the hopes, concerns and needs of families in the congregation and community to determine how best to serve them and how they might best serve each other as Christian disciples and good neighbors. 2. Become familiar with the overall vision and ministry goals of the congregation and write objectives to help achieve these goals through the congregation s ministry with families. 3. Write policies and procedures to guide the ministry with families. 4. Help plan and implement a varied and wide-ranging ministry with families, including worship, study, fellowship, and service opportunities. 5. Identify, enlist, train and support leaders (e.g., parent education team, all-church activity leaders, etc.) for the congregation s family ministries. 6. Read and discuss the resources for developing ministries for families, and participate in formational experiences. 7. Inform the congregation about the hopes and concerns of families in the community, the objectives of the congregation s family ministries, and the ministries available that will reach these objectives. Accountable to 24

25 Finance Coordinate the development of an annual budget and lead the congregation in funding it so that the mission and ministry of the congregation are supported and strengthened. 1. Coordinate the development an annual budget to support the mission and ministry of the congregation and submit it to the administrative board/council/leadership team for approval and recommendation to congregation. 2. Develop and implement a stewardship campaign to generate enough income to support the approved budget. 3. Implement budget allocation instructions from the administrative board/council/leadership team. 4. Guide and monitor the work of the treasurer and the financial secretary. 5. Oversee an annual audit of the records of financial officers and report to the congregation. Accountable to the congregation through the administrative board/council/team and congregational meetings 25

26 Long-Range Planning Lead in developing long-range goals and ministries to fulfill the ministry of the congregation supporting individuals in their daily discipleship, through church ministries and projects, in partnership with other organizations, and with the larger church in order to make the community more loving and just. 1. Study the hopes, concerns and needs of persons in the congregation and community to determine how best to serve them and how they might best serve each other as Christian disciples and good neighbors. 2. Read and discuss resources related to the future of the church and long-range planning, and participate in formational experiences. 3. Intentionally involve the congregation in exploring the future of the church together. 4. Propose to the administrative board/council/leadership team plans for the congregation s future ministry. 5. Become familiar with and use appropriately the resources for ministry provided by the regional conference and denominational office. Accountable to 26

27 Memorials Establish policy, prepare an inventory of potential memorial items, projects and ministries, and supervise the reception and disbursement of all memorial gifts given to the church. 1. Establish policies and procedures to assist donors in determining the designation of memorial gifts that best supports the ministry of the church, including determining whether gifts (monetary or nonmonetary) should be accepted or rejected based on appropriate needs of the church. 2. Consult with either the donor or next of kin to the one remembered, as appropriate, to determine the use of undesignated memorial gifts. 3. Establish a policy for the use/non-use of the attachment of name plates for specific memorial items. 4. Develop and prioritize a list of needed items, projects or ministries that can appropriately be funded by memorial gifts. Invite pastors and other boards/committees/teams to submit suggestions. 5. Publicize this list of items, offering opportunity for church members and friends to contribute in memory of a deceased loved one or in honor of a loved one still living. 6. Review, update, and submit this list each year to the administrative board/council/leadership team. 7. Maintain accurate records of all memorial gifts received and disbursed by the memorials board/committee/team through the church treasurer. 8. Disburse memorial gift funds at its discretion through the church treasurer. 9. Supervise sending acknowledgments for all memorial contributions. 10. Establish an interest-bearing Agency Investment Account through Covenant Trust Company to invest gifts designated for ongoing, extended or capital projects. Position Description (Based on Stewardship Starter Kit Job Descriptions, ECC) Accountable to 27

28 Mission Involve the congregation in spreading the gospel through witness and service in the community and throughout the world. 1. Become familiar with the overall vision and ministry goals of the congregation and write objectives to help achieve these goals through the mission ministry. 2. Write policies and procedures to guide the mission ministry. 3. Interpret and recommend to the administrative board/council/leadership team ways to involve the congregation in missions. 4. Develop a year-round, multi-generational ministry of mission education so that the congregation will be informed and strongly committed to supporting the world-wide mission of the Evangelical Covenant Church. 5. Uncover community concerns and hopes, and encourage members of the congregation to become involved in mission and service projects in the community. 6. Be aware of the opportunities for service as missionaries or in other ways and enlist qualified persons to apply. 7. Maintain an adequate benevolence budget to take advantage of every opportunity to share in financial giving to mission. 8. Serve as a liaison within and beyond the local church concerning mission. Accountable to 28

29 Music Encourage and enable the individual and corporate music ministry so that the mission of the congregation is supported and strengthened. 1. Become familiar with the overall vision and ministry goals of the congregation and write objectives to help achieve these goals through the music ministry. 2. Write policies and procedures regarding music ministry. 3. Help coordinate the entire music ministry of the church. 4. Assist in planning and coordinating special music for the various services of worship. 5. Coordinate and give leadership to the various musical groups within the church. 6. Develop plans that will provide for music education and inspiration for the entire church family and seek feedback from the congregation on the ministry of music. 7. Recruit and develop new musical talent from within the congregation. Accountable to 29

30 Nominating/Human Resources Ensure the congregation has a working plan for discovering, inviting, nominating, and supporting persons for leadership positions essential to the ministries of the community. 1. Identify the elected and appointed leadership positions established in the congregation (other than paid staff). 2. Work cooperatively with each board/committee/team, other groups, and individuals in preparing position descriptions adapted to the needs and organizational style of the church. 3. Study the responsibilities for each leadership position. 4. Help people explore their spiritual gifts and ministry interests and encourage an Each Person in Ministry attitude throughout the congregation. 5. Become familiar with as many persons in the congregation as possible. List their gifts, skills, interests, knowledge, and commitment. Consider persons of various ages (youth, young adults, and older adults) and life situations (married, single, and retired). Develop a system for keeping this list updated. 6. Work cooperatively with each ministry to identify potential people to be invited to serve in that ministry. 7. Match potential leaders with particular leadership positions. 8. Invite persons to serve in leadership positions and receive their responses. Or, help boards/committees/teams to identify and invite others to join in their ministry. 9. Prepare a ballot of positions identified in the constitution that require an election and present the ballot to the congregation for a vote. 10. Plan opportunities throughout the year to ensure that people are adequately trained and supported for their positions. Accountable to 30

31 Pastoral Relations/Personnel/Mutual Ministries Work toward a vital, healthy, mutually beneficial relationship between the congregation and the pastors and ministry staff. Support the pastors and other staff so that these persons can work effectively in leading and managing the ministry of the congregation for witness and service. 1. Develop an ongoing ministry of care and encouragement for the pastors, ministry staff, and their families. 2. Receive the perspectives and concerns of each pastor and ministry staff member relative to the congregation and ministry. 3. Receive and communicate the perspectives and concerns of the congregation to each pastor and ministry staff member relative to that person s ministry. 4. Evaluate personal and congregational concerns together and if helpful develop an action plan to address the concerns. 5. Review personal and church goals with each pastor and ministry staff member. 6. Pray for the church staff and the church. (Based on description in ECC Model Constitution Team. Your conference office may recommend a specific, more detailed model.) Accountable to 31

32 Properties Supervise and maintain all property belonging to the congregation so that the mission and ministry of the congregation are supported and strengthened. 1. Oversee, care for, maintain, and supervise all local church property. 2. Create policies and procedures regarding the use of church property. 3. Identify, enlist, train and support leaders (e.g., church properties team, kitchen committee, etc.) for the congregation s property and finance ministries. 4. Be responsible, in consultation with the pastor(s), for all use of the church building and grounds. 5. Be responsible for adequate insurance coverage on all church property. 6. Submit annual budget requests for property maintenance and improvement, as well as new property purchases (Based on Stewardship Starter Kit Job Descriptions, ECC) Accountable to 32

33 Stewardship To educate the congregation in the biblical principles of whole-life stewardship and not merely the raising of money to meet budgets. 1. Develop a clear understanding of biblical stewardship in order to lead the congregation in seeing the relationship between wholelife stewardship and discipleship. 2. Communicate that whole-life stewardship applies to the management of time, talent, treasure, creation, relationships and health. 3. Identify the hopes and concerns of the congregation as a whole and as individuals and provide opportunities for the application of Christian stewardship in all areas of life. 4. Coordinate the planning and year-round implementation of a Christian stewardship emphasis for all ages that supports the mission statement of the church. 5. Become familiar with the overall vision and ministry goals of the congregation, how these goals influence its stewardship ministry, and how stewardship can influence and extend these goals. 6. Provide an annual estate planning and/or financial management seminar for the congregation. 7. Present a report of committee activities and plans to the administrative board/council/leadership team. 8. Partner with organizations, persons, and resources in and beyond the congregation that share stewardship responsibilities and concerns. 9. Be informed of the Evangelical Covenant s Stewardship materials. (Based on Stewardship Starter Kit Job Descriptions, ECC) Accountable to the administrative board/council/leadership team and congregational meetings 33

34 Trustee/Financial 0r Asset Management Supervise and maintain all property belonging to the congregation so that the mission and ministry of the congregation are supported and strengthened. These responsibilities include overseeing legal and insurance matters that enable the congregation to operate in a legal and responsible way. 1. Oversee, care for, maintain, and supervise all local church property. 2. Receive, record, properly receipt, and administer all gifts that are made to the congregation. 3. Create policies and procedures regarding managing church property, handling contributions and disbursing funds. 4. Properly invest all trust funds of the congregation and distribute designated gifts appropriately. 5. Ensure that the Articles of Incorporation of the congregation is in good standing. 6. Be responsible, in consultation with the pastor(s) and church leadership, for all use of the church building and grounds. 7. Be responsible for adequate insurance coverage on all church property and to secure adequate liability coverage for church staff and volunteers. 8. Oversee preparation of and submission to the congregation of annual budget requests for property maintenance and improvement, as well as new property purchases. 9. Oversee the area of church staff reimbursement where a personnel committee has not been assigned this task. 10. Ensure an annual audit of the church books is conducted. (Based on Stewardship Starter Kit Job Descriptions, ECC) Accountable to the congregation through the administrative board/council/leadership team and congregational meetings Chairperson elected appointed 34 By

35 Women Ministries s: Address the concerns and conditions of women of all ages in the congregation and community that they may grow in their understanding of God, themselves, others, and the world so that their quality of life may be improved through a personal faith and growth as a disciple. 1. Study the hopes, concerns and needs of women in the congregation and community to determine how best to serve them and how they might best serve each other as Christian disciples and good neighbors. 2. Become familiar with the overall vision and ministry goals of the congregation and write objectives to help achieve these goals through the congregation s ministry with women. 3. Write policies and procedures to guide the ministry with women. 4. Plan and implement a varied and wide-ranging ministry with women, including worship, study, fellowship, and service opportunities. 5. Identify, enlist, train and support leaders (e.g., group leaders, mission chair, etc.) for the congregation s women ministries. 6. Read and discuss resources for developing women ministries, and participate in formational experiences. 7. Inform the congregation about the hopes and concerns of women in the community, the objectives of the congregation s women ministries, and the ministries available that will reach these objectives. Accountable to 35

36 Worship Work with the pastor(s) to ensure the congregation provides opportunities for worship that help persons develop and strengthen their relationship with God, so they may live more faithfully as Christian disciples. 1. Become familiar with the congregation and community to plan appropriately for worship experiences. 2. Become familiar with the overall vision and ministry goals of the congregation and write objectives to help achieve these goals through worship. 3. Write policies and procedures to guide the worship of the congregation. 4. Support the pastor(s) in planning worship. 5. Identify, enlist, train and support leaders (e.g., worship team, prayer team, etc.) for the congregation s worship ministries. 6. Help the congregation become aware of the meaning, purpose, and practice of worship. 7. Promote and support music leadership in the church. 8. Support other formational/educational experiences for the congregation so that persons of all ages better understand the meaning, purpose, and practice of worship. 9. Encourage wider use and understanding of architecture and the arts as expressions of faith and as a means of proclaiming the gospel. Accountable to Membership elected appointed By 36

37 Youth and Family Ministries Address the concerns and conditions of youth in the congregation and community that they may grow in their understanding of God, themselves, others, and the world so that their quality of life may be improved through a personal faith and growth as a disciple. 1. Study the hopes, concerns and needs of youth in the congregation and community to determine how best to serve them and how they might best serve each other as Christian disciples and good neighbors. 2. Become familiar with the overall vision and ministry goals of the congregation and write objectives to help achieve these goals through the congregation s youth ministry. 3. Write policies and procedures to guide the ministry with youth. 4. Help plan and implement a varied and wide-ranging ministry with youth and families, including worship, study, fellowship, and service opportunities. 5. Identify, enlist, train and support leaders (e.g., small group leaders, parent support group leaders, etc.) for the congregation s youth ministries. 6. Serve as liaison with organizations, persons, and resources that relate to youth and youth ministries, and which might help build a strong ministry both within the congregation and the community. 7. Read and discuss resources for developing youth and family ministries, and participate in formational experiences. 8. Inform the congregation about the hopes, concerns, and needs of youth and families in the community, the objectives of youth and family ministries and the resources available or needed to help achieve these objectives. Accountable to 37