ARTICLE VIII: GUILDS
Guilds may be established with Board approval to promote involvement in the activities and functions of the Congregation. Guilds shall be supervised by the Board and shall report to the Board upon request. The number of members is subject only to the discretion of the Guild, except that a minimum of three (3) shall be required on each Guild, with at least two being members of the Congregation. Guild Chairs should be selected by the Guild. Guilds may be dissolved at the discretion of the Board and shall be considered temporarily inactive if the number of Guild members drops below three (3). The following are examples of Guilds and usual functions.
Art:
Shall provide opportunities to affirm the importance of the arts within our lives and commit itself to cultivate, nurture, and present the performing, visual and literary arts within our space. This may be accomplished through art exhibits, sales, live performances, and other events.
Building and Grounds:
With authorization from the Board, shall be responsible for maintenance, repair, and improvement of buildings and grounds, including the hiring and supervision of maintenance personnel. Shall comply with all building, fire, and safety codes in carrying out these tasks.
Congregational Care:
Shall keep in touch with individual members regarding their concerns and well being, particularly in the event of illness, death among family and friends, and other significant events, shall initiate and coordinate personal visits and other types of support activities that might be appropriate in particular circumstances. The Guild shall bring to the attention of the Board any significant collective concerns of the Congregation.
Education:
Shall nurture the spiritual life of the Congregation for children and adults. Shall oversee the selection of educational materials and curriculum; shall help recruit and supervise teachers and other personnel; shall maintain a library; and shall initiate and supervise special programs.
Finance:
Shall promote financial stewardship among the members of the Congregation by facilitating the annual pledge campaign and fund-raising benefits and activities; shall assist the Treasurer in collection and deposit of all funds for the Congregation; shall maintain individual pledge and contribution accounting and budget records; and shall develop the annual budget for approval by the Board.
Membership:
Shall promote, develop and enhance the membership of the Congregation; shall make literature available that relates to member services and the values, procedures, and philosophy of the Congregation; shall gather and record information relating to membership; and shall oversee periodic publication of a Congregational directory.
Program:
Shall work with the minister(s) and other staff in planning and conducting services and obtaining qualified speakers, musicians, and other participants for various services, both from outside sources and from within the Congregation.