Ecclesiastical Governance refers to the way religious organizations, particularly churches, are structured and managed. It involves the rules and systems that guide how decisions are made, how leaders are chosen, and how the community interacts. Different denominations, like Catholicism or Protestantism, have unique governance models, which can range from hierarchical systems with a central authority to more decentralized approaches where local congregations have greater autonomy.
In many cases, ecclesiastical governance also includes the roles of clergy and laypeople in church activities. For instance, bishops may oversee multiple congregations, while elders or deacons often assist in local church management. This governance ensures that the church operates smoothly and fulfills its spiritual mission.