Accountability Process
Over the course of seven years of International operations experience, Cross to Light has formed an accountability system that works when followed. It is simple and highly effective in maintaining order. We have followed biblical principles in formulating the following accountability leadership system.
Number 1: Written Agreement
Just as the Lord has left us with His written agreement, the Bible, we have a written agreement with all officers, volunteers, church plants, project managers, and fundraisers affiliated with Cross to Light. They agree to submit all project proposals to the leadership team for verification and approval. The project manager outlines the project’s scope, defining it with specifications such as a detailed description, drawing, materials, and labor needed, and divides the project into phases. At least three quotes from different vendors are required.
Number 2: Leadership Verification
When a project is outlined, it is first submitted to the in-country leadership team. They verify that it is valid and necessary and verify the cost estimate. Every project must fall under a board-approved program. If a project isn’t within a board-approved program and budget, it must be brought to the Board for review and approval.
Number 3: Board Review
The Board of Directors reviews all programs annually. Every project must fall under a board-approved program. The projects are either approved, need further information, put in a waiting period, or denied with an explanation.
To avoid unnecessary confusion, projects under consideration but not board-approved are not released to the public or discussed publicly until this approval process is complete.
Once the active phase is complete, a report of actual expenses and photos of completion is submitted to both the in-country leadership team and the US project manager so the project can move to the next phase.
Number 4: Faithful Stewardship
Cross to Light’s accountability process is designed to maximize accountability, verification, and donor protection and facilitate good stewardship. For a pastor or project manager to receive a grant for a project, the project must be submitted through this system. If it is not, they will not receive the grant.
Biblical References
For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints. 1 Corinthians 14:33
Let all things be done decently and in order.1 Corinthians 14:40
For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, rejoicing and beholding your order, and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ. Colossians 2:5
Prepare your work outside; get everything ready for yourself in the field, and after that build your house. Proverbs 24:27
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3: 5-6