Although the law requires certain inclusions in a church’s certificate (sometimes called articles) of incorporation (see, e.g., New York Religious Corporations Law (RCL) §193), no specific limits are set for what may be included. And there is even less guidance concerning the form and content of bylaws or corporate policies. This column will examine what should or should not be included in the various governing documents—specifically, articles of incorporation, bylaws and policies, and how to best formulate a clear, enduring and effective corporate strategy in doing so.