Two high-profile churches appeared in the national news recently. The church in each story experienced power struggles among opposing groups in its congregation.

As an expert in church governance and business meetings, attorney Sarah Merkle shared insights for both stories.

In the South Carolina congregation story, Merkle stressed that church leaders cannot ignore their bylaws because doing so means they may end up in court. In the case of a D.C.-area church, she noted the “huge distraction” that can develop if rules for a consequential vote aren’t followed.

The bottom line: All churches must pay special attention to how their governing documents are written and establish sound voting procedures.

Need more help on articles of incorporation, bylaws, and voting procedures? Attorney Richard Hammar explains incorporation and governing documents (including voting procedures), then takes a deeper dive in his book, Church Governance.

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Free Event: The annual Church Compliance Conference is here! Join host Erika Cole, Church Law & Tax, and more on September 23, 2021. This virtual event is designed to equip and inspire pastors and church leaders to tackle change acceleration in the post-COVID church.