I typically speak of theological issues in the Independent Sacramental Movement, but today I want to speak about something very practical. As a former pastor of Roman Catholic parishes, I saw the need for governance and accountability. My current full-time secular profession is in the financial services industry; I attended an event this week where financial professionals attracting non-profit assets, such as endowments and charitable gift funds, presented on challenges facing non-profits. A speaker joked on how many non-profits are not properly organized and lack proper governance, accountability, and oversight. His diagnosis is that most non-profits are run by volunteers and so lack the time and expertise needed. I was thinking about this presentation in the context of the ISM movement and want to share a few thoughts.
I must admit that part of what attracts me to the ISM movement is the “Wild West” aspect. I read stories of how people came into the movement in ways that seem to defy logic. Bishops could literally meet people off the street and feel that individuals were called by God to be clergy. This both attracts and repels me. Several of my blog posts critique ordaining unqualified clergy. My views are conflicted as I long for the early spiritual church but also recognize that institutions and structure are important for continuity and stability.
As a RCC priest, I understood the importance of controls. Parishioners handed me money as I was visiting without questioning my integrity. I never liked receiving funds directly because there was no transparency. Financial scandals are more prevalent than sexual scandals, in my opinion, though they are rarely detected especially on the small scale. I sought to always provide transparency and accountability. Money counters alternated weekends when counting the collection to provide an extra layer of security. Moreover, the parish released financial reports to parishioners that detailed income and expenses. I had an open-book policy and wanted people to know where their donations were going.
Not only did I emphasize financial transparency, I focused on accountability. We listed our parish council and finance council members in the bulletin. We also provided notes from the parish meetings so people knew what was happening. If we want people to “buy into” a mission, we need to disclose what we are doing and find ways for everyone to participate.
Someone might object that my experiences as a pastor are far from the experience of most ISM communities. I would agree but I also believe we need structures in place that foster growth. Is it right that only the bishop of a local ISM community keeps the books, even if he or she is a saint? Mainline communities recognize that collaboration is no longer optional. The clergy are often ill-equipped to handle many of the administrative tasks of running parishes. Accountability and governance reduce the risk of scandal.
The ISM movement should be led by the Spirit but never be suspect because of improper governance and accountability. People are leaving mainline churches because of scandals. If the ISM movement is to attract members, we need to provide a place that minimizes abuse and exploitation of any kind. The ISM movement needs professionals who can volunteer their services and provide governance and accountability.
Peace,
Ben