Practical Skills for Lay Leaders

Nan DahlkeVice President

Metropolitan Chicago Synod

Called to ServeRomans 12:6-8Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; if service, in our serving; he who teaches, in his teaching; he who exhorts, in his exhortation; he who contributes, in liberality; he who gives aid, with zeal; he who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.

What’s in Your Toolbox?

Model Constitution for Congregations

http://www.elca.org/Who-We-Are/Our-Three-Expressions/Churchwide-Organization/Office-of-the-Secretary/Congregation-Administration/Model-Constitution-for-Congregations.aspx

Robert’s Rules of Order

Purpose of Good Order:• Make sure all voices are heard.• Ensure the rights of the majority.• Protects the rights of the minority.• Defend the rights of individual members.• Safeguard those people absent from the meeting.• Treat one item at a time. • Extend courtesy and fairness to all.

Rights and Responsibilities of Members• Receive notices of meetings.• Attend meetings.• Be on time.• Stay until the end of a meeting.• Be ready to talk knowledgably and

intelligibly on a topic.• Be attentive.• Be open minded.• Treat everyone with courtesy.• Make, second, and debate

motions.• Speak openly but allow others to

speak.• Follow the rules of debate.• Make a point concisely.

• Attack issues not people.• Appeal the decision of

the chair.• Abide by the decision of

the majority.• Be familiar with

constitution and bylaws.• Promote growth.• Enhance reputation.

Spiritual Discipline Prayer

Bible Study

Communion of Saints

Use your Gifts

Connect with others in similar leadership positions

Sense of Humor

Person to Give You Feedback

Nuts and Bolts

AgendaWho sets an agenda?

How do you build an agenda?

What should an agenda include?

Being an Example

Where to go for Help

Metropolitan Chicago Synodwww.mcselca.org

(773) 248-0021

www.elca.org

Ephesians 1:16

I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my

prayers, that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, may give you a spirit

of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him.