Rules of Order in Church Business
Many churches have in their bylaws that they will conduct their business meetings according to Roberts’ Rules of Order, but in the actual meeting, Roberts would never recognize his rules!
Congregations with which I have been associated appreciate doing things a bit more informally, as long as things are going well. It is important, however, when things are not going well, to make a straight line back to these formal rules of order.
In a friendly meeting, people will sometimes address one another when they have a question or observation concerning a matter to be decided. This is fine, if the atmosphere is friendly and the matter is moving toward conclusion. On the other hand, when matters seem to be getting less friendly, the moderator need to take immediate control and instruct all persons wishing to speak to seek permission from the chair, and then to address the chair with any comments. The congregation needs to be educated in these matters to know which recommendations they can make to help bring the congregation out of a troublesome business meeting.
There will be times when matters of business will be taken very seriously by church members, and it is very important that people come away with a feeling of unity. It is of extreme importance that the moderator of the meeting know how to maintain order and keep control of the meeting.
Discussion Area