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Navigating Treacherous Waters

Navigating the treacherous waters of documentary revision is hazardous, but the results of such an effort are most rewarding.

To stir up the dissidents, just announce that a study committee has been formed to consider revising the church constitution and bylaws.

Why? Because that document represents for some a toehold of authority and the single safeguard against unwanted change. To meander here is to tread on thin ice and risk awakening slumbering negativism.

So why take the risk? Why not just leave well enough alone? Because out-of-date and cumbersome governing documents will hold the church down like a ball and chain. Capable and visionary leadership will gladly accept the challenge; the alternative is unthinkable. This is the work of the Kingdom.

Several years ago, the leadership of the church I pastor accepted the challenge, faced the risks with courage, and led the congregation through the process with positive results.

Here are the steps we took:

1. The congregation voted in favor of a board-appointed constitution/ bylaws revision committee. This gave the committee the sanction and approval to do its work with courage.

2. The revision committee took its time (about 1 year) to do its work. The committee moved through the existing documents to note needed changes and then began to incorporate those changes into a document of revision. A recording secretary helped the committee maintain its focus and forward movement.

3. Two public forums were held to seek input. The committee explained the revisions and solicited suggestions from the membership. These were listening times for the committee. Comments were taken seriously and prompted further revisions.

4. An official meeting was called to present the final report of the committee and enlist confirmation from the membership. Interestingly, in about 2 hours the document had been approved with very little amendment. It was the result of careful planning, full disclosure, and participatory decisionmaking.

5. The process from beginning to end was supported by prayer. This is the key. God’s work requires His direction and His blessing. We were all grateful.

The most controversial matter had to do with women in ministry. Or more specifically, whether or not the prohibition that disallowed women to serve on the official board should be lifted. The committee itself was originally divided. But after much study, prayer, and discussion, they reached a consensus and proposed a recommended course of action. That recommendation was included in the document that was finally adopted by the full membership. Hard work and due process had paid off.

Progressive leadership cannot ignore the importance of good governing documents. If the constitution and bylaws are no longer representative of the life of the church, a revision is mandated.

Of course, navigating the treacherous waters of documentary revision is hazardous, but the results of such an effort are most rewarding.

Who knows—you may enjoy the ride. I did.

—Richard L. Dresselhaus, D.Min., San Diego, California