Let's be honest, church administration is NOT the most thrilling topic. But whether your ministry is big or small, administration is the backbone that keeps everything running smoothly. Here are a few key ways to help avoid organizational pain points and focus on the heart of ministry.
It's not just about keeping up with the times; it's about using every tool available to further your ministry's impact and cutting down on the time you spend on tedious tasks.
The Balancing Act
One of the toughest challenges in pastoring a church is finding balance. You're always walking a tightrope, juggling the spiritual needs of your congregation with the day-to-day running of an organization.
On the one hand, you're guiding people on their spiritual journeys; on the other, you manage budgets, maintain facilities, and coordinate volunteers. It's easy to feel like you're being pulled in a hundred different directions at once.
Managing Resources
Regarding resources, managing a church's budget and staff is no small feat. There's always more ministry and more people to reach, but often, the funds are not always available. Prioritizing how to spend resources wisely while staying true to your mission can feel overwhelming.
And then there's the human side—volunteers and staff. Volunteers are the lifeblood of any church, but managing them can feel like herding cats. They're passionate and committed but juggling their own jobs, families, and lives as well.
Communication is Key
Communication is one of the most common pain points I see in churches. Keeping everyone on the same page is crucial, whether among staff, volunteers, or the congregation. But with so many moving parts, things can easily slip through the cracks.
Clear communication channels and keeping everyone on the same page require some upfront work, but updating bylaws, policies, and procedures is worth the time and effort. Creating documents and systems will save you countless hours of stress and heartburn and keep you out of legal and financial trouble.
I had a client (actually multiple clients) who did not have a purchasing policy, so the staff and volunteers would spend on a whim, causing cash flow issues and mistrust between the congregation and the staff. Once the policy was in place, there was accountability. Since guidelines were in place, cash flow issues declined, and trust was rebuilt.
At first, policies may feel restrictive, but as people adjust and see that these policies are in place to protect them and the church, they are willing to go along.
Technology and Tools
Technology also plays a massive role in church administration. However, it is also a double-edged sword. Tools like church management software can streamline processes and keep everything organized. On the other hand, the constant updates, new platforms, and the need for tech-savvy skills can be a bit much, especially if you're not exactly a "tech person."
But here's the thing, embracing technology is essential. It's not just about keeping up with the times; it's about using every tool available to further your ministry's impact and cutting down on the time you spend on tedious tasks.
I recommend investing in the following: (I have no affiliation with the following platforms.)
Quickbooks Online is easy to set up and keeps your records current. Most bookkeepers already use it, and it would be easy for them to help or even take over your accounting.
Gusto - A very affordable payroll and benefits platform that will help you manage payroll and keep you out of trouble.
Microsoft Teams — Having a messaging platform where you can communicate with staff and volunteers internally helps get things done quickly. If you have Microsoft 365, you can access Teams. Google Chat is good as well if you have Google Workspace.
Buffer—If your church has a social media presence, using a social media scheduler can save you a lot of time.
YouTube - is an excellent option for streaming sermons or storing videos. While there are other platforms, most small—to medium-sized churches can use YouTube.
Google Calendar — If you do not have a CHMs that allows you to schedule and track events, Google Calendar is a good, low-cost option that will help you and your staff stay organized.
SimpleTexting — Texting is the best way to reach your congregation and inform them about volunteer opportunities, upcoming activities, and sermon series. It is easy to use and low-cost.
The Burnout Battle
Let's face it, leading and managing a church can be exhausting. The demands are high, and the stakes feel even higher. You're not just leading an organization; you're shepherding a community. The weight of that responsibility can lead to burnout if you're not careful.
That's why it's crucial to take care of yourself. Delegate where you can, and don't be afraid to ask for help. Remember, you're not in this alone.
At Virtual Executive Pastor, we've helped multiple pastors avoid burnout by taking on the administrative duties that can lead to it. Bringing someone else in to help allows pastors to focus on what truly matters—serving their congregation and community.
A Ministry, Not Just a Job
Running a church's operations isn't just about checking off tasks on a to-do list. It's a ministry. Every budget line, volunteer schedule, and facility issue is an opportunity to serve God and His people.
So yes, church administration is challenging. It's messy, complex, and often thankless. But it matters. Behind all the spreadsheets and schedules, there's a deeper purpose—advancing the Kingdom and making a difference in people's lives. And that's worth every bit of the effort.
Matthew Dillingham is the founder of Virtual Executive Pastor, an organization that provides administrative and operational support to churches of all sizes. He has over 20 years of experience in church and non-profit operations, finance, and communications.
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