Seven Gems: Styles of Governance in Christian Education

As a Board Member of a Christian organization, you are entrusted with the sacred responsibility of guiding the institution toward its mission and vision. Effective governance is crucial to ensuring the organization's long-term sustainability and success. In this article, we will explore the “7 Gems-Styles of Governance”, which offers different frameworks designed to help boards navigate the complexities of leadership and make informed decisions that honour God.

The diamond represents the first gem, Faithful Fiduciary, which is renowned for its exceptional hardness and durability. This gem symbolizes the firm foundation of financial integrity and responsible stewardship. The Faithful Fiduciary Model emphasizes prudent financial management, ensuring financial integrity and responsible stewardship. As a board member, it is essential to prioritize financial oversight, budgeting, and risk management. As Psalm 92:12 reminds us, "The righteous will flourish like a palm tree; they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon." For further guidance on faithful fiduciary, see "Financial Intelligence: A Manager's Guide to Knowing What the Numbers Really Mean" by Karen Berman and Joe Knight (Harvard Business Press, 2006).

The second gem, Governing with Grace, is represented by the pearl, formed through layers and growth. This gem symbolizes the gentle yet impactful approach of spiritual guidance and oversight. The Servant Leadership Governance Model emphasizes spiritual guidance and supervision, leading with humility, compassion, and wisdom. As a board member, I know it is crucial to prioritize spiritual leadership, humility, and servant leadership.Colossians 4:6 encourages us, "Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." For further guidance on governing with grace, see "The Servant Leader" by Robert K. Greenleaf (Paulist Press, 1977).

The third gem, Strategic Stewardship, is represented by the emerald, prized for its vibrant green colour. This gem symbolizes growth, harmony, and balance. The Strategic Stewardship Governance Model focuses on setting a vision and direction for the organization, prioritizing growth, harmony, and balance. As a Board Member, it is essential to prioritize strategic planning, vision-setting, and goal-oriented decision-making. As Proverbs 21:5 reminds us, "The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty." For further guidance on strategic stewardship, see " Strategic Planning for Nonprofit Organizations" by Michael Allison and Jude Kaye (Wiley, 2015).

The fourth gem, Accountable Authority, is represented by the ruby, known for its deep red colour. This gem symbolizes courage, strength, and authority. The Policy Governance Model emphasizes establishing clear policies and procedures, ensuring compliance and accountability. As a Board Member, it is crucial to prioritize policy development, compliance monitoring, and accountability. As Ephesians 6:6 encourages us, "Obey them not only to win their favour when their eye is on you but as slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart ." For further guidance on accountable authority, see "Policy Governance: How to Get the Best from Your Board" by John Carver (Jossey-Bass, 2006).

The fifth gem, Nurturing Nurture, is represented by the amethyst, often associated with calmness, clarity, and spiritual growth. This gem reflects the commitment to care for stakeholders. The Asset-Based Community Development Governance Model prioritizes the well-being and development of stakeholders, fostering a supportive and caring environment. As a board member, it is essential to prioritize stakeholder engagement, community development, and asset-based approaches. Ephesians 4:32 reminds us, "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." For further guidance on nurturing, see "Asset-Based Community Development: A Paradigm Shift in Community Development" by John P. Kretzmann and John L. McKnight (ACTA Publications, 1993).

The sixth gem, Transparent Trust, is represented by the sapphire, valued for its transparency and durability. This gem symbolizes trust, loyalty, and wisdom. The Open-Book Governance Model emphasizes transparency, open communication, and stakeholder engagement. As a board member, it is crucial to prioritize transparency, open communication, and stakeholder participation. As Proverbs 11:1 reminds us, "Th e Lord detests dishonest scales, but accurate weights find favour with him." For further guidance on transparent trust, see "The Open-Book Experience: Lessons from Over 100 Companies Who Have Successfully Implemented Open-Book Management" by John Case (Perseus Books, 1998).

The seventh and final gem, Discerning Decision-Making, is represented by the topaz, associated with clarity and discernment. This gem symbolizes the thoughtful and prayerful approach to decision-making. The Discerning Decision-Making Governance Model prioritizes seeking God's guidance and wisdom in decision-making, emphasizing prayerful consideration and thoughtful reflection. As a Board Member, it is essential to prioritize prayerful decision-making, discernment, and thoughtful reflection. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." For further guidance on discerning decision-making, see "Decision Making and the Will of God" by Garry Friesen and J. Robin Maxson (Multnomah Press, 1980).

In conclusion, the “7 Gems—Styles of Governance” provide us with various frameworks for effective Board Leadership. Some focus on a single style, while others adopt a combination. By comprehending these distinct governance models, boards can recognize the different styles, navigate the complexities of leadership, and make informed decisions that honour God. It’s important to remember that effective governance involves making decisions and stewarding the resources and relationships entrusted to you. Christian Leaders are called to lead with integrity, wisdom, and compassion, and the 7 Gems of Governance provide a powerful tool for realizing this vision.