Church Governance Overview
It’s helpful to start with an understanding of the different types of church governance. Below is a brief description of some of the many forms of governance found in churches. (Ask your church leadership for more information about your church’s unique theological and governance framework.)
Pastor-led – Pastor-led churches typically have a strong pastor leader with a small board of elders that provides accountability to the pastor.
Board-led – In a board-led church, the board is self-perpetuating. The board selects the pastor and votes on his continuing to serve the congregation.
Congregational – In a congregational model, many or most decisions regarding the functioning of the church are made in a congregational setting, with members voting on decisions. This may include hiring and firing pastors and setting budgets, compensation, programs, capital expansion, and more.
Presbyterian polity – A method of church governance set apart by the rule of assemblies of presbyters, or elders.
Episcopal polity – A hierarchical form of church governance in which the chief local authorities are bishops.
Connexcionalism polity – This type of governance is characterized by a strong central organization that holds an annual conference. The connexion is further divided into districts in the charge of a bishop or similar title. Ministers are assigned to congregations by bishops and lay members are given representation at regional meetings.
Bishop Eddie Gross has a unique calling to mature the believers through a compelling messages that call them to not just hear but to apply the principles of the word of God. He is a pastor, writer, author, podcaster and a complete techie. He is happily married to the love of his life and partner in ministry Cledra Gross and the father of one son. Bishop Eddie Gross resides in Raleigh, NC.
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