In his seminal work, "The African American Church: Financial Business & Operations Management Guide For Church Leadership - Principles, Practices, and Strategies For Effective Stewardship & Outreach", Dr. G.R. Quarles draws from his extensive experience in business and academia to provide church leaders with a comprehensive guide to effective financial and operations management.
As a guidebook and a manual, this work digs deep into the core financial practices and strategies that are crucial for successful church management. From the importance of financial management and the role of church leadership to the crucial aspect of managing church assets and investments, Dr. Quarles explores every angle, illuminating pathways to enhance and optimize church operations. He also delves into the legal and tax considerations that are unique to African American churches, providing a guide to IRS publications and discussing insurance and liability coverage.
The book addresses complex issues like church consolidation, merger, and closure, providing insight into the reasons churches choose these paths and detailing the steps involved in each process. A comprehensive discussion on fundraising strategies for African American churches serves as a practical guide for sustainable financial operations.
Dr. Quarles further outlines the importance of having proper legal documents, contingency plans, and security management systems. He explores the current state of the African American Church and its financial future, emphasizing the importance of financial literacy and generational wealth.
In the latter parts of the book, the focus shifts to outreach and community development, urging churches to think outside the box and explore entrepreneurial opportunities. He guides churches on how to foster entrepreneurship and invest in promising entrepreneurs within their community.
Lastly, the book provides responses to common questions, such as whether a church can do business with the Federal government for profit or own rental property and/or a senior living facility.
Through its 26 chapters, this book is a treasure trove of insights, serving as an essential resource for those looking to navigate the complex financial and operational landscapes of running a church. It is a must-read for church leaders, finance committees, and anyone involved in managing or overseeing church operations.
