Governance
The structure of the United Church of Christ is based on the local congregation. Christ is the only acknowledged leader of the church. No official hierarchy manages local affairs as each congregation practices its own forms of organization, worship, education, and mission. The affairs of the church are managed by the members of each congregation.Individual UCC congregations work together through associations and conferences. The General Synod speaks to the whole UCC and oversees its worldwide work. Special agencies, mostly elected by the General Synod, carry out the UCC Christian World Mission.
Congregation
The Bethel congregation is made up of its members and pastor who each have a voice in the setting the budget, engaging in worship, and shaping programs.Church Board
At Bethel, the Church Board is the governing body of the congregation. Seven members elected at large by the members of the congregation each serve a three year term. The pastor, clerk, and treasurer assist the Church Board. The moderator of the Church Board is responsible for leading the group. The Church Board is responsible for- strategic planning and program evaluation
- financial matters, including meeting fiscal objectives, yearly budget, gifts and memorials, planned giving, stewardship and pledges, and the annual audit
- personnel matters, including personnel policies, evaluation, contracts, and job descriptions
- committees, including coordinating communication between committees and overseeing standing committees such as Mission and Outreach, Faith Development, Diaconate, Facilities, Staff, Nominating Committee
- auxiliary groups
- UCC Conference delegates
Staff
The staff of Bethel includes the Pastor, Director of Faith Development, Youth Leader, Director of Music Ministry, Accompanist, Organist, Administrative Assistant, Treasurer, and Nursery Attendant. Staff recruitment, contracts, and evaluation is the responsibility of the Church Board.Committees
Committees are established and coordinated by the Church Board, each responsible for an area of church life. Current standing committees include:- Mission and Outreach, responsible for social awareness and education, service projects and other mission and outreach activities.
- Faith Development, responsible for coordinating church school for children, youth groups, adult education, bible study, and camping ministries.
- Diaconate, resonsible for worship, music direction, social activities, evangelism, hospitality, and shepherds.
- Facilities Management, responsible for insurance, building use and maintenance, furnishing, equipment, and grounds.
- Nominating Committee, responsible for recruiting members of the Church Board and other committees and presenting a slate for election by the congregation.