Church Law

Pastors and church leaders in America face challenges that are increasing in scope and impact. Whether we're talking issues of cultural dynamics and the church or need-to-know information about everyday operations, the legal issues impacting churches aren't going away. Listen to the Church Law podcast to gain real life insights from a real lawyer who does this work everyday. You'll gain key insights to help your church in this critical time, and learn the pitfalls to avoid. All straight from The Church Attorney® along with some special guests!

Christianity
Religion & Spirituality
1
BONUS EPISODE! An Interview with Richard Hammar...
Understanding legal issues past and present for churches with Richard Hammar, a pioneer in the field of church law.
40 min
2
Endings and New Beginnings, with Church Podcast...
Some churches must face the end—but they can launch new beginnings for the good of the kingdom.
29 min
3
When to Hire An Executive Pastor, with XPastor....
As churches grow and change, the demands on senior pastors can become almost overwhelming. Enter the executive pastor.
27 min
4
The Thriving, Expanding Church, with guest Brad...
How metrics and technology, including AI, can help churches that are expanding, thriving, and hitting their strides.
26 min
5
Navigating the Early Years, with guest Pastor S...
How churches move from launch to longevity requires regular assessments and adjustments.
26 min
6
Starting a Church, with guest Peter Olson, exec...
How does a church start right and grow in a healthy way? Erika speaks with Executive Pastor Peter Olson on pre-launch plans, governance, and vision.
23 min
7
The Lifecycle of a Church
All living things go through seasons, and churches—as bodies of people serving the Lord—are no exception.
12 min
8
A Look at Churches and the Economy in 2024, wi...
How church leaders can remain steady, even as economic indicators in 2024 continue sending mixed messages.
23 min
9
What To Do—or NOT Do—This Election Year
Erika Cole Offers Tips for Church Leaders on What To Do—Or NOT Do—This Election Year
16 min
10
Legal Considerations for Youth Ministry, with G...
Jeff Dalrymple from ECAP talks about the proactive ways churches can protect their youth from personal injuries and prevent abuse.
19 min
11
What Leaders Need to Know Now about Church Insu...
Guest Peter Persuitti with Gallagher Insurance Company discusses what’s changing with church insurance coverages, and what leaders need to know as they faithfully pursue their ministries.
28 min
12
Five Critical Things Every Church Board Member ...
Five critical things every church board member should know include fiduciary and legal responsibilities, and the concept of duty of care.
18 min
13
Expanding Uses for Church Property and Related ...
Finding new uses for church property can expand ministry and generate alternative revenue—but legal considerations must be contemplated.
25 min
14
Releasing Sacred Cows and Engaging New Operati...
Erika Cole and Denise Craig talk about releasing sacred cows as leaders seek new ways of serving their churches.
19 min
15
Four for ’24: Top Issues for Churches to Watch
Erika Cole and Matthew Branaugh talk about four legal, tax, and financial issues for churches to watch in 2024
23 min
16
Erika’s Favorite Episodes of 2023
Erika Cole shares her top five episodes of the Church Law podcast in 2023
12 min
17
BONUS: Live Q&A—Strengthening Churches for Rene...
Church leaders explore why strengthening churches for renewal and growth depends upon legal, financial, and tax-related fundamentals.
27 min
18
Church Membership: What is it? Why does it Matter?
Taking the right approach to church membership can sidestep a lot of landmines—and shape a church's long-term outlook.
23 min
19
Pastoral Succession for the Long-Term Good of t...
Pastoral succession demands thoughtful planning for churches of all sizes. Do not wait until it’s too late.
25 min
20
Readying Your Church for the AI Wave
The AI wave is here and real. Churches must understand its power—and its potential problems.
16 min
21
Equipping Younger Church Leaders
Fewer younger leaders are stepping in to fill roles left by older pastors and church leaders. But taking the right approach can turn the tide.
20 min
22
Equipping Your Church Board for Long-Term Success
How churches can educate, train, and support board members for effective service.
23 min
23
How a Legal Audit Can Strengthen Your Church
New laws, regulations, and court decisions create new complexities and legal liabilities. Here’s how regular check-ups can minimize challenges for church leaders.
26 min
24
Addiction, Shame, and a Church Merger
Recognizing hurts and hang-ups that can trigger moral failures in church ministry.
31 min
25
Building a Healthy Leadership Culture in Your C...
Avoiding the toxic dynamics among and between a church’s pastors, boards, and senior staff leaders that can hamper fulfilling the church’s God-given vision and mission—and can create legal troubles.
27 min