Simplified Accountability Structure
The Simplified Accountability Structure (SAS), also known as the one board model, is a governance approach gaining traction in many United Methodist Church congregations nationwide. This model consolidates various committees (Trustees, Council, Finance, and SPRC) into a single governing body, typically termed the Leadership Team.
Understanding the SAS:
Traditionally, United Methodist churches have operated through multiple committees responsible for various
aspects of church life, including finance, administration, ministry, and outreach. However, the SAS simplifies
this structure by bringing these functions under one body called the leadership board. This streamlined
approach aims to enhance efficiency, communication, and collaboration within the church community.
Key Features of the SAS:
1. Consolidation: Instead of multiple committees, the SAS integrates functions into a single governing body.
2. Leadership Board: Typically assumes the responsibilities previously held by separate committees and
serves to govern.
3. Efficiency: By reducing redundancy and administrative burden, the SAS promotes quicker decision-making
and resource allocation.
4. Alignment: With all functions overseen by one board, there's a greater opportunity for alignment of goals and
priorities across different areas of church ministry.
5. Strategic: The new leadership board focuses on the future helping set the mission, vision and identity of the
church and provides accountability and support for achieving the mission.
Potential Impact on the Church:
1. Streamlined Decision-Making: Implementing the SAS can lead to more agile and responsive decisionmaking
processes, enabling the church to adapt more effectively to changing needs and circumstances.
2. Enhanced Collaboration: With committees merged into one board, there's greater potential for collaboration
and synergy among different ministry areas, fostering a more cohesive church community.
3. Resource Optimization: The SAS may help optimize resources by eliminating duplication of efforts and
resources previously allocated to multiple committees.
4. Increased Engagement: Involving more members in a single governing body can enhance member
engagement and participation in church affairs, promoting a sense of ownership and unity.
5. Challenges and Considerations: While the SAS offers benefits, its implementation may encounter
challenges, including resistance to change, potential role conflicts, and ensuring equitable representation and
decision-making within the unified board.
Conclusion:
The Simplified Accountability Structure (SAS) presents an alternative governance model for United Methodist
churches, aiming to streamline operations, enhance collaboration, and align ministry efforts. While its
implementation may pose challenges, the potential benefits in terms of efficiency, collaboration, and resource
optimization make it a model worth considering for congregations seeking to adapt and thrive in a changing
church landscape.
Understanding the Simplified Accountability Structure (SAS) in the United Methodist Church
SIMPLIFIED:
1. Reduced Complexity: The SAS simplifies the governance structure of a United Methodist congregation by consolidating multiple committees and boards into a single governing body. This consolidation eliminates redundancy, streamlines decision-making processes, and reduces administrative overhead.
2. Unified Decision-Making: Instead of disparate committees operating independently, the SAS brings together all relevant stakeholders under one umbrella, often called the Church Council or Leadership Team. This unity facilitates more cohesive decision-making and ensures that different areas of ministry are aligned
with the overall vision and mission of the church.
3. Streamlined Processes: By eliminating the need for separate committees handling various aspects of church life, such as finance, administration, and ministry, the SAS promotes efficiency and agility. It allows for quicker responses to emerging needs and opportunities within the congregation and the broader community.
Accountable:
1. Clear Lines of Responsibility: Despite the consolidation of committees, the SAS maintains a structure that holds individuals and groups accountable for their actions and decisions. Each member of the unified governing body has specific roles and responsibilities, ensuring that there is clarity in decision-making processes and oversight of church affairs.
2. Transparency: Accountability in the SAS involves transparency in decision-making and resource allocation. With all functions overseen by a single governing body, there's greater visibility into how decisions are made and how resources are managed within the church. This transparency fosters trust and confidence among
church members.
3. Stewardship: The SAS promotes responsible stewardship of resources, both human and financial, within the church community. By consolidating committees and promoting collaboration, the SAS ensures that resources are used effectively to advance the mission and ministry of the church, with a focus on achieving tangible
outcomes and impact.
In summary, the "Simplified" aspect of the SAS refers to the streamlined governance structure achieved through consolidation, while the "Accountable" aspect emphasizes clear lines of responsibility, transparency, and responsible stewardship of resources. Together, these elements contribute to a more efficient, collaborative, and accountable approach to church governance within the United Methodist context.