The Church Office

Hosted by Gavin Smith

Business Management Religion Spirituality Christianity

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Episodes

100

Latest episode

Sep 2026

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About the show

The Church Office exists to support the work of ministry that happens behind the scenes. Bringing helpful and encouraging content to equip and support those involved in Church Administration, Church Leadership and Structuring Church Life.

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60 recent

October 2, 2026Episode 1416 min

Faithful and Limited

Faithful and Limited Serving behind the scenes in church life can bring great joy, but also the pressure to keep everything running smoothly. With growing responsibilities and limited time and energy, it can begin to feel as though everything depends on us. In this episode, Gavin shares a personal reflection following the Mind the GAP conferences. Drawing on 1 Corinthians 3, he explores the encouragement found in Paul’s words: we plant and water, but God gives the growth. Our calling is to serve faithfully with the gifts God has given us, recognising our limitations and trusting him with the results. For anyone serving in church administration, operations or leadership, this is an invitation to work diligently, pray dependently and find peace in the truth that Christ is building his church. Our limitations are part of being human, and our labour in the Lord is not in vain.

September 12, 2026Episode 1342 min

From Church Administrator to Church Manager: Janet Sutherland’s Story

After 22 years as a primary school teacher, Janet Sutherland sensed God leading her into a completely new chapter, first as a church administrator and later as church manager. In this episode, Janet shares honestly about that transition and the growing responsibilities she now carries, from managing buildings, rotas and governance to supporting staff, volunteers and members of the wider community. We explore the joys and challenges of a role in which no two days are the same, the importance of supportive leadership and healthy appraisals, and why church administrators and managers need trusted relationships with others who understand their work. An encouraging conversation for anyone serving behind the scenes in church ministry, particularly those whose role is growing and changing.

August 25, 2026Episode 1230 min

Mind the GAP Conference: Leading from the Middle

In this episode, we introduce the vision behind the Mind the GAP conference, created for church managers, administrators, operations managers and ministry leaders serving in the space between vision and delivery. We explore the reality of leading from the “messy middle", translating vision into action, managing competing priorities, supporting senior leaders and bringing staff and volunteers with you. Discover how the conference will equip you with practical skills, greater confidence and the influence needed to help your church or Christian organisation move forward together.

July 24, 2026Episode 1139 min

Behind the Scenes of Gospel Ministry- The Gospel Coalition

What does it take to build a healthy ministry behind the scenes? In this episode, Gavin Smith is joined by Zach Cochran, Vice President for Operations at The Gospel Coalition, to explore the often-overlooked role of operations in advancing gospel ministry. The conversation explores the unique calling of the "number two" leader, the importance of trust, integrity and consistency, and why operational leaders are often called to absorb pressure while enabling others to flourish. Whether you're a church leader, operations manager, administrator or volunteer, this episode offers practical wisdom on building healthy teams, leading through change, and creating the structures that help churches faithfully fulfil their mission. In this episode you'll discover: The story behind The Gospel Coalition Why healthy organisations focus on sustainability, not just growth The vital role of the church operations leader How trust, integrity and consistency shape effective leadership Why youth ministry is one of the best leadership training grounds Leading through disappointment and organisational change How operational excellence supports gospel ministry A thoughtful conversation for anyone passionate about strengthening the local church through faithful leadership and healthy organisational culture.

July 10, 2026Episode 1048 min

Your Church Beyond Sunday: Building an Online Presence

A church's online presence is often the very first welcome someone receives, long before they ever walk through its doors. In this episode, Jon Wright, Trustee of The Church Office, and Adrian Semerene, church pastor, explore how churches can make the most of their digital presence. Together they discuss websites, social media, live-streamed services, and digital communication, sharing practical ideas to help churches engage their communities, strengthen relationships, and faithfully reflect the life and mission of the church online.

June 26, 2026Episode 932 min

Is Your Church Ready for Martyn's Law?

Martyn's Law is bringing new responsibilities for many churches and Christian organisations. In this episode, Anna Wood, one of The Church Office Trustees, and Becky Thomas, Director of Governance at the FIEC, join us to unpack what the legislation means, who it applies to, and the practical steps churches can take now to improve safety, prepare their teams, and respond well in an emergency. Whether your church falls within the scope of the legislation or not, this conversation will help you think proactively about protecting people and being prepared.

June 12, 2026Episode 830 min

Join the UK Church Administrators Network (UCAN)

In our latest The Church Office podcast, Jon Wright is joined by Penny Clarke, one of the Directors of the UK Church Administrators Network (UCAN). Listen in as they discuss what UCAN is, their experiences of being part of UCAN and how you can get involved!

May 28, 2026Episode 749 min

Managing Change in Churches

In this episode, Gavin is joined by Rachel Slough to explore the important subject of managing change in churches. Rachel shares practical wisdom and honest insight into why change can feel challenging, how leaders can guide people well through transition, and the importance of communication, culture, and trust along the way. Together they discuss the realities churches face when navigating growth, vision, and new seasons of ministry. This conversation offers encouragement and practical tools for church leaders, administrators, and teams seeking to lead change with wisdom, care, and confidence.

May 15, 2026Episode 653 min

Employment law changes in April and October 2026

In this episode, Gavin is joined by Mark Jones from Edward Connor Solicitors to discuss some of the key employment law changes coming in April and October 2026. Mark explains what these updates could mean for churches, including changes to statutory sick pay, family leave, redundancy consultation, tribunal time limits, and wider workplace responsibilities. This conversation offers a clear and practical overview for church leaders, trustees, operations managers, and administrators who want to serve their staff teams well, review their policies, and prepare wisely for the changes ahead.

May 7, 2026Episode 526 min

BONUS EPISODE- What is a Back Office Review

In this podcast, Gavin speaks with Andy Laws, the new Operations Manager at Slade Evangelical Church in London. Andy shares their church’s experience of undergoing a Back Office Review with The Church Office and the impact it has had on their operations. If you’d like to find out more about booking a Back Office Review for your church, please e-mail us at info@thechurchoffice.co.uk