The First Five Tasks for an Executive Pastor

I recently took on a part-time role at my church as the executive pastor, overseeing finance, legal, human resources, and strategic initiatives—I’m still leading the law firm, but am enjoying serving my church around 8-10 hours per week in these areas.

            As I started, I thought through the first five (5) areas that I should take a look at—and here’s what I came up with. I’m sharing them with you to help you take a look at these five priorities in your local church or nonprofit.

1.           Review Bylaws and Governing Documents

Often, the only time we look at the bylaws or governing documents is when we have a crisis, and we need to pull the documents out to discover our options. However, I recommend regular review of the bylaws and governing documents (including articles of incorporation and policies) to ensure the church is operating according to those documents and also to ensure the documents have the greatest protections to the church or nonprofit.

2.           Review of Employee Manual

Recent Supreme Court cases have expanded what is referred to as the “ministerial exception” as it relates to employee matters, as well as have provided explanation regarding religious liberty and employment issues. I suggest that churches and faith-based nonprofits review their employee manuals to ensure that they comply with the latest holdings regarding religious employers and religious liberty issues.

3.           Categorization and Classification of Employees

Employees should be categorized into various categories like Lead Pastor, Associate Pastors, Assistant Pastors, Executive Directors, Directors, Ministry Support, and the like. The types of categories will vary from church to church or organization to organization. The key takeaway here is that employees within each category must be treated similarly regarding salary and benefits.

4.           Review Insurance Policies

There are three keys to protecting a church or nonprofit: (1) strategic governing documents, (2) effective policies, and (3) appropriate insurance. Click here to read a blog regarding what types of insurance your church should purchase.

5.           Review Safety Policy

More than ever, churches are engaging safety teams, but often the focus of the teams may simply be on providing protection for key ministry leaders. An effective safety policy provides for the qualifications and training of the safety time, procedures in emergencies, including natural and man-made, and safety procedures for all events involving children.

            If your church or nonprofit would like RLG to assist in any of the five key areas discussed in this blog, please contact Corbin at corbin@reynoldslawgroup.com and we can set up a strategy session.