Diakonia of Congregational Administration

This course will explore an essential role of clergy in offering oversight and service to key aspects of the unfolding of congregational life. What is the relationship between this practical work of the laity, theology, and congregational health? How can clergy offer intelligent oversight and service to lay leadership with out interfering and micromanaging? In dialogue and discussion with expert practitioners we will focus on basic skills and awareness necessary to effective leadership in the areas of congregational administration, including: finances and budgeting, property and buildings, stewardship, volunteer management and personnel supervision and feedback, organizing the weekly Sunday liturgy. Though the course will draw on Anglican polity and examples, the issues addressed by the course are faced in various forms by congregational leaders across denominations.