Guide to Wording a Resolution
Church meetings are important for when a church is wanting to make an important decision or action. This is written as a ‘resolution’ that identifies the action and provides clear records of decision. It is important that resolutions are written clear and succinct, by which this guide provides samples for a church on how to […]
Process for appointing a leadership or volunteer role
Screening is part of the leadership appointment process. It is one way that the leadership can determine in advance if a particular individual is appropriate and eligible to lead or volunteer within the church. The main steps that should be followed when appointing a leader or volunteer are: Have a position description for each role […]
Covenantal Church Membership
What is Membership of a Baptist church? What does becoming a member mean? Why would someone become a member? Based on Luke 24: 13 – 35, this introduction provides answers for these questions through scripture, and explores the foundations of a Member’s Covenant and provides examples of church covenants. Click here to download the Covental […]
Guidelines on Impact of Fixed Term Contract Changes to the BUV
As part of the Australian Government’s Secure Jobs, Better Pay changes, rules about using fixed term contracts have changed from 06 December 2023. The BUV sought legal advice from Colin Biggers & Paisley on how the new legislations will affect the BUV and our churches. Summary of their advice can be accessed through this link. […]
Sample BUV Constitutions for Churches
Churches wanting to become a BUV constituent must have their church constitution approved by the Union Council in accordance with the BUV constitution. A constitution can be lengthy as it is a detailed document that covers the church composition, membership, leadership, financial and general matters. The following guide aims to assist churches in the drafting […]
Schedule B
The current Schedule B considers all amendments made in 1968, 1975, 1984, 1994 and 2022. Schedule B outlines the rules on Trust property and certain church financial matters, the appointment and dismissal of church leaders, how Special Church Meetings are to be called and convened and the regulations around church membership size. The plain English […]
BUV Constitution
A Constitution is the legal framework around which a church operates. Constitutions should reviewed and be kept up to date every few years. The constitution of the Baptist Union of Victoria was established by the Baptist Union Incorporation Act (Vic) in 1930, which follows the principles of trust premises and leadership of the local church […]
2026 Guidelines for Healthy Church Pastor Relationship
These guidelines seek to create clarity for both the pastor and church and to foster working conditions where both pastor and church are able to function efficiently, and at their best. The BUV’s experience shows that working conditions for the pastor that are fair, healthy and supportive helps to create an effective and healthy church. […]
Developing Role/Positions Descriptions – Paid or Volunteer
All churches have volunteer and sometimes paid leaders who take on governance or operational roles such as Eldership, Diaconate, Ministry Team Leaders. It is important that there are clearly expressed expectations about these roles – authority, responsibilities, accountability, etc. If your church is looking to advertise for the following positions but aren’t sure what a […]