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Our Behavioral Covenant
“For where two or more are gathered in my name, I am there among them.”
--Matthew 18:20
Jesus said these words to his disciples. In 2003 the elders and deacons said these words to themselves. Recognizing Jesus' presence in their midst, they designed a behavioral covenant to frame their own way of being with each other. Not only has it shaped their work, but it has expanded to be used with all mission teams in the life of Westminster. It is the Session's hope and promise that this covenant be shared throughout the congregation. As Jesus is present in our midst whenever we gather, may this process govern our life together.
To implement our responsibilities for leadership:
- Session will annually determine a shared vision for the church.
- Processes of Session will support the robust discussion of diverse points of
view & be committed to a final shared decision.
- Mission teams will develop & communicate goals/objectives/plans consistent
with this shared vision.
- Session will trust mission teams in their plans to implement a vision & hold them accountable for results
To improve our communication:
- We will communicate fully and truthfully what we can, what we can't and
- We will conscientiously communicate, factually, timely and positively, between elders, deacons, staff, membership and the community
- We will communicate to the congregation this new covenant we are making.
To resolve conflicts:
- When conflict arises, we will acknowledge that it exists; we will approach
it fearlessly; we will address it respectfully and in a timely manner; and
we will seek a collaborative resolution.
- We will always go directly, face to face, to the source of the conflict (no
triangles)
- We will resolve no conflicts through letters, email, or third parties.
- We will start with Matthew 18:15-17, and with group prayer.
To follow through:
- We will hold each other accountable with respect and honesty, speaking the
truth in love.
- We review how well the covenants have been honored at the end of each
officer and mission team meeting.
- We will develop a passionate cause for Westminster for which we will hold
each other accountable.
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