Good church governance is like seatbelts in the car. We don’t often think about them - but when something goes wrong, we’re very glad they’re there!
The same is true in church life. You may not often think about governance, or even be sure what it means. At first it can feel like something distant, far removed from our mission to multiply and mature wholehearted followers of Jesus.
But in reality, governance is simply the structures, processes, and accountability that help our community stay faithful to Christ, healthy in practice, and focused on what God has called us to do.
At City on a Hill, this takes a number of different forms:
External accountability through our Board of Reference.
Internal division of responsibilities between pastoral staff and the Administration Team.
Trustees who carry out our financial and legal obligations.
A church membership that appoints officebearers for many of these roles.
From the very beginning of City on a Hill, we have wanted to honour Jesus and live in obedience to him in all we do - even in our governance. We take our lead from Paul’s example in 2 Corinthians as he carefully managed the gifts entrusted to him:
“We want to avoid any criticism of the way we administer this liberal gift. For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of men.” (2 Cor 8:20–21)
That means we want to be careful to “do what is right” in every area — finances, property, government regulations, insurance, accountability, and more.
Last night I met with our Board of Reference. It was a joy to share with them what God is doing among us, and to receive their wisdom and encouragement. Their role reminds me that healthy governance is never about bureaucracy for its own sake, but about ensuring the health of our church and keeping Christ at the centre.
So next time you buckle your seatbelt, give thanks not only for road safety, but also for the quiet safeguards that help our church keep moving faithfully and fruitfully in the mission Jesus has given us.
If you’d like to know more about how our governance works, or have any questions, I’d love to hear from you.
Grace and peace,
Andrew