b'DAYTODAYRIPPLESHerb SmithMeans and EndsWhy policy governance mattersC itygate Network has placed strongmake it more uplifting? I explained that the nega-emphasis on the concept of policytive language provides limitations not punitively, governance as a best practice for ourbut constructively. The Ten Commandments estab-movement ministries. lish similar boundaries on our behavior before Dysfunctional boards, frustrated CEOs, mis- God. As God wants us to enjoy an abundant life sion drift, and even staff morale are challenges forwithin those limitations, policy governance is also many of our mis- designed to help facilitate the development of sions. It has beenabundant and productive missions that achieve said we are onlythe ends through the means that God allows each as strong as ourmission to choose.weakest link. WeAs a former CEO, the concept of policy gover-take that adagenance was a freeing set of boundaries that allowed seriously andme to go about the business of creating effective believe that withprograms, within approved budget boundaries good training, alland focused on the God-envisioned ministry of boats rise! Policyour mission.governance isPolicy governance keeps everyone in their designed tolanes, focuses on outcomes (ends), and allows staff reduce such frictions and align boards and staff. to create strong programs and services (means).Policy governance provides the framework forLets embrace the great variety to be found every mission to design policy-specific guides foramong our fellow Citygate Network ministries! their boards and CEOs to reach the goals God hasGod created us all in His image, but just as every led them to articulate. No, the policies are not thesnowflake is intricately unique, no two missions same for everyone. The size of the mission and thepolicies are the same. Policy governance recog-experience of the board and/or the CEO/executivenizes diversity while providing a framework for director will inform each missions policy creation.effective ministry. Writing policies is a bit like stacking bowls: StartMy exhortation to you: Thou shalt not allow with the widest possible policy and tighten it toyour ministry to be less than what God envisioned! reflect your ministry culture. To learn more, participate in Ripple Effect and A board member recently challenged me as tosee how policy governance can improve your why the limits had to be so negative. Couldnt weministrys health and outcomes today. \x03 Herb Smith is Citygate Networks regional coordinator for the Sierra District and has served in the past as Citygate Networks board chair. With 20plus years serving first as CFO and then CEO for the Los Angeles Mission, Herb has a rich history providing business leadership and mission operations. He and his wife, Kathy, have retired to Washington state and welcome visits from their grown children, grandchildren, and grand dog, Contact Herb at hsmith@citygatenetwork.org.52 WWW.CITYGATENETWORK.ORG NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025'