Churches and congregations, like any other organisation, require structure, planning, and due diligence to ensure operations run smoothly and safely.
Whether it's managing events, maintaining facilities, or safeguarding vulnerable individuals, checklists are a simple yet essential tool for staying organised and compliant.
Here are 12 of the most common checklists used in churches and congregations, covering both day-to-day responsibilities and strategic oversight.
This checklist ensures the physical environment is safe for staff, volunteers, and visitors. It typically includes:
Fire exits and alarms tested and unobstructed
First aid kits stocked and accessible
Electrical equipment PAT tested
Trip hazards identified and addressed
To protect children and vulnerable adults, churches must follow rigorous safeguarding practices. A safeguarding checklist might cover:
DBS checks completed for relevant staff and volunteers
Safeguarding policy reviewed and accessible
Designated Safeguarding Lead contact details displayed
Training completed and logged
Whether it's a service, fundraiser, or community event, planning is key. This checklist supports the logistics and communication around events:
Venue booked and risk assessed
Volunteers assigned to roles
Guest speakers confirmed
Promotion and communications planned
Especially post-pandemic, hygiene has remained a priority. Cleaning checklists typically include:
Toilets and kitchen areas sanitised
High-touch surfaces disinfected
Cleaning supplies replenished
Rota assigned to responsible persons
Regular maintenance avoids costly repairs and ensures longevity of church property:
Roof and gutter inspections
Boiler and heating system servicing
Lighting and plumbing checks
Security systems tested
Fire safety is not only a moral duty but also a legal requirement. This checklist often covers:
Fire extinguishers serviced and marked
Emergency lighting operational
Evacuation procedures reviewed
Fire drill dates recorded
To welcome and train new volunteers efficiently, this checklist may include:
Role description provided
Induction and tour of the premises
Safeguarding and health & safety briefings
Introduction to team and supervisor
For weekly or special services, this checklist ensures everything is in place:
Readings and sermon finalised
Audio-visual equipment tested
Music rehearsed and coordinated
Welcome team briefed
Churches have obligations to demonstrate financial stewardship and transparency:
Bank reconciliations completed
Gift Aid claims submitted
Annual accounts reviewed
Treasurer’s report prepared for trustees
Trustees must fulfil various governance responsibilities. This checklist may include:
Meetings scheduled and minuted
Risk register reviewed
Policy documents updated
Charitable objectives monitored
For congregations with crèches or children’s groups, safety and involvement are crucial:
Toys cleaned and age-appropriate
Supervision ratios maintained
Sign-in/out procedures followed
Allergy and medical needs recorded
To record and follow up on any accidents or concerns:
Incident forms readily available
Reports submitted to leadership or safeguarding team
Actions taken documented
Lessons learned reviewed and implemented
Checklists play a vital role in church administration and pastoral care. They support compliance with regulations, improve volunteer coordination, and create a safer, more welcoming environment for all. By integrating structured checklists into everyday operations, churches can uphold their duty of care while focusing on their spiritual and community mission.
For churches looking to digitise and streamline checklist management, modern software solutions can simplify tracking, reporting, and collaboration across teams and ministries.
Modern web applications have a lot of benefits when it comes to organising audits, inspections, assessments and checks in a clear and easy-to-understand way. Test our Falcony | Audit FREE for 30 days or Contact us for more information:
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