Robert's Rules of Order for church meetings, simplified
You do not need to master a 700-page book. A few basics keep church meetings orderly and fair.
First, know what governs you
Your bylaws come first. Many bylaws say the church follows Robert's Rules of Order Newly Revised (the current edition is the 12th) for anything the bylaws do not address. If your bylaws set a different quorum or voting threshold, the bylaws win. The official site is robertsrules.com.
How a motion works
- A member is recognized by the chair and says, "I move that..."
- Another member seconds it.
- The chair states the motion to the group.
- The group debates.
- The chair calls the vote: those in favor, those opposed.
- The chair announces the result.
Quorum
A quorum is the minimum number of voting members who must be present for business to be valid. Unless the bylaws say otherwise, Robert's Rules default to a majority of the membership. Many churches set a lower number in their bylaws, since a majority of all members rarely attends.
Common voting thresholds
- Majority of votes cast. The usual default. Abstentions do not count as votes cast.
- Two-thirds. Used for things like suspending the rules or limiting or ending debate, and often for bylaw amendments.
- Majority or two-thirds of those present or of the entire membership. Only if your bylaws say so. These are harder to reach.
The quorum and vote calculator shows whether a vote passes under each rule.
Small boards can relax
The book itself says boards of about a dozen or fewer members can use less formal procedures: members may speak without being recognized, motions need no second, and the chair can take part in debate and vote. Many church boards work well this way.
Common mistakes
- Misusing "table." Tabling a motion sets it aside temporarily. It is not a way to kill it or to postpone it to next month.
- Skipping the minutes. Record each motion and its result. See how to write church meeting minutes.
- Ignoring the bylaws' notice rules. A perfect vote at a meeting that was improperly called can be challenged.
Try the tool: Quorum and vote calculator for church boards. Is there a quorum? Did the motion pass?
Related guides
- How a church board works: three common models
- Church bylaws: what to include
- How to run a church board meeting
Published Oct 3, 2026. General information, not legal, tax or HR advice. Rules vary by state and by church.