Church Administration is concerned with church operations. It includes matters such as planning (for the congregation as a whole and for programs and events), financial oversight, facilities management, personnel issues (for paid staff and volunteers), operational policies, communication strategies, etc. This cohort will examine the foundation, focus, and functions of church administration.
Part 1: Church Administration: Foundations
After giving brief attention to defining church administration, this first week will examine why clarity regarding a church’s mission is the foundation of church administration. Without clarity of organizational mission, effective administrative decisions are not possible.
Part 2: Church Administration: Focus
Even with clarity of mission, a church cannot do everything its mission may suggest. Sound administration decisions require churches to define ways they will focus their mission. Strategic goals guide sound administration.
Part 3: Church Administration: Functions
Church administration often focuses on technical matters: e.g., keeping facilities in good repair, developing a budget, filling staff positions, choosing a church school curriculum, etc. While these technical decisions are necessary, the critical function of administration is alignment of technical decisions with the church’s mission and the strategic goals of the organization.
Cohort facilitated by Rev. Eric C. Fistler
Rev. Fistler is a United Church of Christ minister, podcaster, and father. Since 2015, Eric has served as senior minister at the First Congregational Church of Crystal Lake, IL. In 2003, he graduated with his B.A. from Augustana College, and, in 2007 graduated with his M.Div. from Eden Theological Seminary.
In 2006, he received the “Blessed are the Peacemakers” award from the World Council of Churches for his peacemaking work in Israel-Palestine. He is a founding member of Cathedral in the Night (est. 2011), an emergent street church in Northampton, MA. In 2013, Eric along with Rev. Robb McCoy, started the Pulpit Fiction podcast, a weekly lectionary podcast for preachers.
Digital content created by Rev. John Bracke, Ph.D.
Dr. Bracke taught Hebrew Bible and congregational leadership and administration at Eden Seminary for 28 years before retiring in 2012. During his time at Eden, he served as academic dean for 14 years.
His educational background includes degrees from Elmhurst College, Eden Theological Seminary, and Union Presbyterian Seminary.
Dates: Jan 9, Feb 13, Mar 13, and Apr 10, 2025. All cohort meetings will be online.
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