Topic: Restructuring Governance for Small Congregations

Whether you’re a pastor or a lay leader, your church’s governing documents are your best friend. They’ll help you manage conflict, prevent volunteer fatigue, and focus on what matters most. Our Association General Minister is experienced in helping churches right-size their organization. In this session, she presents a model of effective church governance for smaller congregations. You’ll receive an overview of best practice for church governance and guidance on how to get the process of review and renewal started.

Facilitator: The Rev. Nayiri Karjian

Nayiri has been serving as the General Minister of the Association since February 2018. An Armenian Christian born and raised in Aleppo, Syria, Nayiri graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Haigazian University, and Near East School of Theology, Beirut Lebanon; and with a Master of Divinity degree from Lancaster Theological Seminary, Lancaster, PA.  Since her ordination in 1985 she has served UCC congregations in Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Connecticut, Wisconsin, Chicago, Houston, St Louis, and Colorado Springs. Nayiri has shared her gifts both as settled and transitional Minister, including numerous board and committees on the UCC National Setting.