The Hidden Life of Boards and Committees

Many spiritual writers used to talk of Christ’s early life as “the Hidden life of Nazareth”. Perhaps, in our Diocese we can speak of the “Hidden Life of Committees and Boards.”

Whether it is our Vestries or Bishop’s Committees or Diocesan Commissions and Committees, or Diocesan Corporate Boards, much of the hard work and planning for our ministry together as a diocese takes place in these monthly, bi-monthly or quarterly gatherings. Some are large, some are small, some are vibrant, some are struggling, some are surprising and exciting, some are routine. But believe it or not, it is precisely in these hidden and often unsung places where the Spirit can, and often does work to bring new life to our Diocese, congregations and ministries.

It is autumn and our Diocesan convention is approaching. It is the time when many of our Diocesan ministries, Boards, Committees and Commissions are seeking new members for election. Could God be calling you this year to discern a vocation to serve our life together in this way?

The following links present information on what non-profit Board service means, scriptures which may help in the discernment process, and some articles on the importance of committee and board service. It is our hope that this web page will be of assistance not only to those who may wish to serve on ECS’ Board, but also to anyone discerning a call in preparation for our Diocesan Convention, (or even for vestry service).

Holding the Mission in Trust; Effective Board Leadership by The Rev James B. Lemler

The above is an excellent piece on Board/committee service in a religious context. Well worth a read not only for those contemplating a call to a board but for those already serving committees and vestries within our diocese. We have broken it into its sections to help a reflective read

Qualities sought in those elected to vestry service

 

Committees typically found within non-profits

 

Relationship With the Executive Director

 

Service on a Board, Vestry or Committee is as much a ministry within the Church as a call to service as a Eucharistic Minister or Sunday School Teacher and should therefore be entered into in a spirit of prayer and discernment. The following are some

Scripture passages on discipleship and discernment