As a crisis chaplain and pastor, I’ve worked to help churches avoid problems that could result in a crisis. Here is a quick look at the four areas where trouble for churches lurk.
Administration. Far too many churches have no bylaws or haven’t bothered to consult them in years. The same person who counts the offering writes the checks and keeps the books. Nobody is sure what insurance policies cover, and there is no coverage for counseling or directors’ liability. There is no written employment agreement for paid employees, and pastor’s tax status is incorrect. These are just a few ways that trouble can enter.
There was an article circulating on the internet a few weeks ago. It was a survey that proposed to explain why some children who grow up attending church continue to do so when they become adults while others do not. The article didn’t cite any specifics to document their research, but I thought their conclusion was worthy of discussion.