Working with established institutions can be tedious. This is true of any organization, from the local church to the federal government. Internal competition for resources and influence creates political and interpersonal dynamics that can range from unpleasant to vicious. After years of creating well-intentioned new policies and procedures, a rigid bureaucracy can begin to constrain organizational effectiveness, which diminishes participation and morale.
At their best, institutions are situated to aggregate human talent and innovation to bring the best results to the most people possible. Of course, this is not always what happens: if you’ve ever been involved in denominational work, you know that “Robert’s Rules of Order” does not always bring out the best in people.
Yes, congregations are having a challenging time. The traditional economics of ministry are being tested by inflation and a waning trust in institutions. However, we need our institutions as much as ever. Among many other valuable and practical things, they connect us to the past by providing rhythms and rituals to remember and understand our history. This connection keeps us rooted in values and stories that matter.
Institutions such as churches and denominations also force us to think about the future. When we do not help institutions discern their plans for what’s next, they inevitably become complacent and rely on past success as a guarantee that the trend will continue. Yet all kinds of institutions, from congregations to colleges, have discovered that success in the future is not a foregone conclusion. As imperfect as they are, institutions are worth the time and energy it takes to sustain and strengthen them.
What institutions energize, enrich and engage your life? How are you using your time and talents to give life to them?
Resources
‘First Churches’ and the changing offering plate
These mainline anchor institutions have been somewhat insulated from financial stress, but that is changing fast. Historic downtown churches need to think differently about stewardship in a new age, write a bishop and pastor.
By Audrey Warren and Kenneth H. Carter Jr.
Who supports you in times of crisis?
Families and congregations can help sustain us through life’s difficulties, but institutions also play a crucial role.
By David L. Odom
We can’t just place Black women in leadership, we need to support them
It is not enough to appoint Black women to leadership and call it progress. Without deep, sustained support, the very systems that claim to celebrate us can also harm us, says a preacher and communications specialist.
By Brittini L. Palmer
Before you go
What got me thinking about institutions was my recent participation in a statewide denominational meeting. It lasted three full days, and the agenda was packed with all the usual activities: business meetings, informative workshops and Spirit-filled worship services. At one point, we presented the president of a local university with a check for a significant contribution. What none of the churches could do on their own, we accomplished as a collective. I saw old friends and made new ones.
Yes, institutional work can be tedious. But I’m glad I went to the meeting and I plan to go to the next one. I think we’re doing good work and, with God’s help, we’ll do even more.
Do you have feedback on this week’s issue or ideas you want to share? You can always reach me and the Alban Weekly team at alban@duke.edu. Until next week, keep leading!
Prince R. Rivers
Editor, Alban at Duke Divinity