Online Worship, Virtual Meetings, and Live-Streaming
- View resources on how to stream your congregation’s worship or events online: Live Streaming Worship
- Learn how to use Zoom to host virtual meetings and small gatherings: Learn More about Zoom Plans, Learn How to Get Started with Zoom, View Zoom’s FAQ and Quick Start Guide
- If you are planning to use music in your online worship services, you will need to obtain clearance to stream any copyrighted music. The Southeastern Iowa Synod has a list of resources in determining copyright information for hymns and other music. Learn More.
- Dennis Smith has experience in video editing and is available to work with congregations. Learn More.
Coronavirus Resources
Read news and updates about the COVID-19 pandemic and view resources on online worship, virtual meetings, stewardship, stress management, the CARES Act, Paycheck Protection Program, financial planning, outreach ministries, and more. View Coronavirus Resources.
Additional resources on planning and responding to medical emergencies are listed below in the “Disaster Planning and Response” section.
Internet Security Resources
With the increased use of web-based technologies, it is important to understand how to best protect your information from those who are looking to steal it. Learn more about internet and information security, how to protect your information, and what to do if your information has been breached. Review Resources.
Prayer Partner Ministry
Call Process Documents
- Call Process Manual
- Certification of Church Records
- Certification of Financial Records
- Covenant of Departing Pastors
- Possible Interview Questions
- Service of Sending
Compensation Documents
- Compensation Guidelines (2024)
- Compensation Guidelines (2023)
- Compensation Guidelines (2022)
- Compensation Guidelines (2021)
- Notice on Medical Reimbursement
Portico Resources
- Benefit Overview
- ELCA Benefit Coverage in Times of Transition
- Understanding ELCA Disability Benefits
- Financial Assistance Resources
- Portico Help Guide
Congregations in Transition
- List of Congregations in Transition
- Pulpit Supply List
- Sample Contract for Supply Pastors
- Leaving a Legacy of Mission and Ministry (Closing of a Congregation)
Financial
- Congregational Audit Guide
- Certification of Financial Compliance Review of Congregation Records
- Mission Support Statement of Intent
Disaster Planning & Response
- Congregational Disaster Preparedness Guidebook, Part 1
- Congregational Disaster Preparedness Guidebook, Part 2
- Congregational Disaster Preparedness Worksheets
- Emergency Response Plan Template
- Medical Emergency Planning
- Medical Emergency Response Team
- Medical Emergency Response
- Safety Resources
- Department of Homeland Security’s CISA Security Self-Assessment Tool
- Department of Homeland Security’s Houses of Worship Security Resources
Congregation Constitutions
- READ FIRST – Guidelines for Developing and Maintaining Congregation Constitutions – NWLM Synod
- Congregation Constitution Update Procedures – as of April 2022
- Model Constitution for Congregations – effective August 2022
- 2019 Amendments to the Model Constitution for Congregations (for reference only – all amendments are included in the 2019 Model Constitution)
Other