Our Senior Leadership Team (SLT) consists of Executive Pastor of Community Life, Mike Bernoi and Sr. Executive Director, Jason Earle. This new shared leadership structure, which operated during the interim period following the resignation of our former Senior Pastor in the Spring of 2023, was officially voted into our Articles and Bylaws at our June 2024 Congregational Meeting. The SLT operates under the governance of the Elder Oversight Team (EOT).
You can view the org structure here.
The SLT is responsible for what the Senior Pastor was previously responsible for. The Articles and Bylaws state that, “Direction and oversight of the Church as a living community of people joined in covenant membership is the responsibility that is shared by the SLT and Board of Elders. The strategic planning, implementation of vision and shepherding of the congregation is the responsibility of the SLT under the oversight of the Elders and Trustees…” it goes on to state that “the criteria for SLT members shall be consistent with those listed in 1 Timothy 3:2-7. They shall be beyond reproach in the Church and community, display the Biblical characteristics of wisdom, maturity, and a servant’s heart, self-discipline, discernment and courage, and have the ability to teach and model Biblical truth.
What is the Senior Leadership Team (SLT)?
DRCC has three leadership circles: Elders, Trustees and Staff. The Senior Leadership Team (senior staff) is responsible for what the Senior Pastor was previously responsible for: leading mission achievement, vision casting/teaching, strategic planning, leading the church staff, keeping our leadership circles aligned and shepherding the congregation. The SLT operates under the oversight of the Elder Overseeing Team (EOT).
Mike Bernoi will be serving as Executive Pastor of Community Life Pastor overseeing the weekend experience, teaching team, adult discipleship and congregational care. Mike will continue to serve as SLT representative to the Elder Board.
Jason Earle will continue in the role as Senior Executive Director overseeing central services (HR, finance, facility, campus development), communications, family ministry and missions. Jason will continue to serve as staff representative to the Trustee Board.
Who’s ultimately accountable in a multi-leader model?
One of the benefits of a multi-leader model is that the responsibility of leading a church is shared and that the different giftings of leaders are maximized. It also allows for even greater discernment and collaboration for significant decisions. Shared leadership and teaching have always been a core value at Damascus Road.
Clear roles are important for effectiveness and to avoid unnecessary conflict. The Human Capital Committee (HCC) along with senior staff and the Elders have created role definitions and a process for conflict resolution.
Ultimately, the Elder Board is responsible for the spiritual health and fulfillment of the vision. Amongst the staff Senior Leadership Team (SLT), there are areas of individual ownership as well as areas of joint ownership as they lead the church under the oversight of the Elder Oversight Team (EOT).