Mutual Ministry

In the ELCA Model Constitution for Congregations (C13.04) it says that each congregation is required to have a mutual ministry committee.

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What is a Mutual Ministry Committee?

Mutual Ministry is a mission oriented enterprise that is characterized by a broad vision of ministry and a healthy practice of mutuality.

 

What does that mean? 

+ The committee is mission-oriented. It is committed to the mission of the Church and the congregation.

+ The committee understands that “a healthy practice of mutuality” may involve corrective guidance and listening to people who find themselves at odds with staff, volunteers, or the church in general.

+ The committee makes use of a small group approach to mutuality. Monthly or bi-monthly meetings have a focus and are grounded in the ongoing ministry of the congregation.

+ The committee practices “scanning and response” which means members pay attention to the climate in the congregation and make notes to share with committee members so that an appropriate response can be made to the situation. Sharing observations and making suggestions is a big part of the committee’s work.

 

Why do we need it?

+ Truly mutual ministry will be renewing for the whole congregation, including the pastor, and will encourage everyone’s ministry. The ministry will serve the whole, not just the pastor and not just the congregation. 

+ It’s important for people to have a place to be heard—especially when there is disagreement.

+ Consistent on-going review/evaluation of the mission and ministry of the congregation will build a stronger ministry and open pathways for growth.

 

Who should serve?

It’s important to choose the right people for the right roles in any ministry within a congregation. Choose or appoint people based on their gifts and fit with this ministry.

Qualities: Trustworthy, confidence-keeper, approachable, open, objective, willingness to be trained and/or learn.

 

Size of the committee can be determined by the Council. Typically there are six members. A schedule of rolling terms should be adopted so that the committee always has two or three members with experience. 

 

Misconceptions

+ “This is the “complaint department” 

+ “This is the pastor’s gripe session” 

+ “This committee relates directly to finance for the purpose of budgeting.”

 

Possible ways the committee can function

+ Pastoral ministry support. 

+ Listening to challenges the pastor may be facing and offering suggestions for support

+ Personnel Committee

+ Working in conjunction with the Congregation Council for personnel reviews, hiring, discipline, etc.

+ Ministry review and support. Conducting an annual review of the congregation’s ministry that addresses areas of growth and challenge. Setting goals and working with the staff for support and guidance.

+ Fielding concerns and challenges from members before it develops into conflict

+ Responding to issues that arise within the congregation and dealing with them in a timely and direct fashion.

 

Possible training for the committee

+ Mediation skills

+ Conflict management

+ Appreciative Inquiry

+ Active listening

+ Goal setting and review

+ How to evaluate growth and change

 

Mutual Ministry Handbook (Coming Soon!)