Episode Notes
In this opening episode of the HCMI podcast, we sit down to explore the fundamentals of forming a church building committee. Whether your congregation is just starting to talk about a building project or you have already been asked to chair the committee, this episode lays the groundwork for understanding what the role involves and how to set your team up for success from day one.
We walk through the key roles that should be represented on any building committee, from financial oversight and pastoral liaison to communications and project coordination. We discuss how to set clear expectations so that committee members know the time commitment, decision-making authority, and reporting structure before they sign on.
One of the most common early mistakes churches make is jumping straight into design conversations before the committee has done its foundational work. We talk about why the first 90 days should be focused on building internal alignment, developing a shared vision, and establishing a communication rhythm with the congregation rather than selecting architects or reviewing floor plans.
We also share practical advice on how to build momentum without burning out your volunteers, including how often to meet, how to document decisions, and how to keep the broader congregation engaged and informed as the project takes shape.
Topics Covered
- What a building committee actually does and why it matters
- Defining roles: chair, secretary, finance lead, pastoral liaison, and communications
- Setting realistic expectations for time commitment and decision authority
- The most common early mistakes and how to avoid them
- Why the first 90 days should focus on vision, not design
- Building a communication plan that keeps the congregation engaged
- How to maintain momentum without volunteer burnout
About the Host
Hosted by the team at Hawkey Church Management Inc., drawing on 50 years and over 500 church building projects across Ontario.
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