Frequently Asked Questions
What is church governance?
Church governance refers to the structures, policies, bylaws, leadership roles, and decision-making processes that guide how a church operates. Healthy governance creates clarity, accountability, and alignment between a church's mission and its leadership practices.
Why would a church need a governance review?
Many churches operate under governing documents that have been amended repeatedly over decades and no longer reflect their current ministry realities. A governance review helps identify gaps, inconsistencies, outdated provisions, and structural challenges that may be hindering effective leadership and ministry.
How do I know if our church needs help?
Get your FREE FGLC Governance Health Assessment on our home page.
Common indicators include:
Outdated bylaws or governing documents
Unclear leadership authority or responsibilities
Recurring leadership conflict
Difficulty making decisions
Governance structures that no longer support ministry goals
Questions about membership, discipline, or church procedures
A desire to transition leadership models or organizational structures
Do you provide legal advice?
No. Francis Governance and Leadership Consulting does not provide legal advice. We offer governance assessments, recommendations, organizational analysis, and consulting services. Churches should consult qualified legal counsel regarding legal matters and the final review of governing documents.
What denominations do you work with?
We work with churches and faith-based organizations from a variety of denominational and theological traditions. Our goal is not to impose a particular governance or theological model, but to help organizations develop governance structures that align with their mission, values, convictions, and ministry objectives.
See our Doctrinal beliefs here.
Do you only work with churches?
No. While churches are our primary focus, we are also work with schools, ministries, associations, para-church organizations, and other faith-based nonprofits seeking governance and leadership support.
Wondering if we can help you? Let’s have a conversation!
What does a Governance Assessment and Review include?
A typical Governance Assessment and Review may include:
Review of governing documents
Analysis of leadership structures
Assessment of policies and procedures
Identification of governance gaps and challenges
Written recommendations
Leadership consultation and presentation of findings
Suggested resources for implementation
Each Assessment and Review is tailored to the organization’s needs.
Can you help rewrite our bylaws?
Yes. We can assist churches in evaluating, revising, or completely rewriting governing documents. Our process includes assessment, drafting recommendations, leadership consultation, and implementation guidance.
Do you help churches transition leadership structures?
We assist churches in evaluating or transitioning leadership structures, including elder-led, pastor-led, board-led, and other governance models. We help determine whether your leadership structure aligns with the church's mission, convictions, and ministry needs.
Do you provide leadership coaching?
Our current work focuses on governance and leadership assessments.
Leadership Coaching and Development services will be available in the future for pastors, church staff, elders, deacons, ministry leaders, and boards seeking guidance, accountability, and leadership development.
How long does a consulting engagement typically take?
The length of an engagement varies based on the size of the organization and the scope of work. Some assessments can be completed in a few weeks, while comprehensive governance projects may take several months.
See our timing/pricing breakdowns here.
Do you offer virtual consultations?
Yes! Consultations are available in person, by video conference, or by phone, depending on the needs and location of the client.
What are your fees?
Every organization has unique needs. After an initial free conversation, we provide a customized proposal outlining services, scope, deliverables, timeline, and cost. See our pricing list for general cost summaries.
But the best way to answer this question is with a conversation!
What makes Francis Governance and Leadership different?
We don't just write bylaws—we help organizations build governance systems that strengthen leadership, reduce conflict, and support long-term organizational health.
Aligning Governance. Strengthening Leadership.
FGLC combines practical leadership experience, church governance expertise, organizational assessment, theological education, and nearly two decades of tested ministry leadership experience. Our focus is helping churches align governance structures and leadership systems so they can pursue their mission with greater clarity, effectiveness, and confidence.
Ready To Get Started?
The first step is a conversation. Every organization has a unique story, and we would love to hear yours!