Behavioural Covenant for Wesley
Because we value the ongoing health and vitality of our church community; and
We desire to be a community that is internally strong and cohesive so that we can support and enable each other to reach out to others
I will
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Listen to and value others, treating others as equals regardless of background or status
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Be open to hear different views and be prepared to move my position in the light of new information
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Be accountable for my conduct, and where necessary, if I have a part to play, do my best to resolve conflict early.
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Act honestly, openly and fairly, and ensure that everyone feels safe within our community
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Treat others with respect, including agree to disagree where necessary, and recognizing that a difference of opinion does not imply lack of respect
• Support and encourage others, and show appreciation for their contributions.
As a Church community this Behavioural Covenant will be lived within the overarching principle of the ‘Golden Rule’, that we will do unto others as we would have them do to us.
In developing the Behavioural Covenant, Church Council has been mindful of the principles expressed in the Uniting Church Safe Church Statement. While this statement specifically refers to sexual misconduct, the broad principles which underpin it are transferrable to behaviours and conduct within the Church community. A copy of the Safe Church Statement is found below.
Safe Place Statement
The Uniting Church in Australia believes that all people are made in the image of God, and as such we accept every individual regardless of race, age, creed or gender.
As a Christian Community we believe that God reaches out to us in love and acceptance and that our relationships with each other should express love and respect and not be abused.
As a community of faith we are committed to providing a place in society where human beings can explore what it means to be made in the image of God.
As an expression of this commitment, the Uniting Church in Australia recognises its responsibility to providing worshiping and pastoral communities that are free from abuse and that provide safe environments for all people to explore and express their faith in the Gospel.
Policies for the Prevention of Sexual Misconduct 1997 (and amended versions)
More information can be found here.
