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Code of Conduct for Members

Modified from UCA VicTas Synod Code of Conduct and Synod Code of Conduct for the Prevention of Abuse

Adopted in CouncilMinutes20140624. Rejected by Congregation CongMeetingMinutes20161213. Note that the Synod code of conduct applies to all leaders, independent of this rejection. The congregation subsequently accepted SafeChurchCommitment

• 'I am writing these things to you ... (so) you will know how to live in the family of God. That family is the church.' Timothy 3: 14-15 (NCV)

Policy Statement

• 'Let us concentrate on the things which make for harmony and the growth of our fellowship together.' Romans 14:19 (Phillips)

The Congregation actively promotes a way of life which embraces and communicates Christian values and ethics including:

1. respect and care for every individual;
2. inclusion;
3. integrity;
4. compassion; and
5. wise stewardship

The Congregation’s Code of Conduct is based on these values and provides guidelines for all members of our congregation on the appropriate way to interact with each other.

By adhering to these guidelines we will all contribute to the development of a tolerant caring and sharing environment.

Objective

• 'Each one of you is part of the body of Christ, and you were chosen to live together in peace.' Colossians 3:15 (CEV)

To achieve in the congregation a culture where relationships are based on cooperation, mutual respect, understanding and trust.

Scope

• 'Most of all, let love guide your life, for then the whole church will stay together in perfect harmony.' Colossians 3:14 (LB)

This policy applies to all members of the Glen Waverley Uniting Church congregation.

Application

The practical application of this policy will be demonstrated by all members in both their formal and informal interactions with other members.

Care and respect

• 'In Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.' Romans 12:5 (NIV)

We acknowledge that every individual has different gifts and skills and we will therefore:

1. treat others with dignity and respect;
2. behave courteously and without prejudice at all times;
3. respect the right of others;
4. value colleagues, their gifts and contributions; and
5. not say or write anything that other members of our congregation might find offensive.

Within our congregation we aim to set an example for the community at large and this can include setting a standard that is higher than community norms. In particular, it is unacceptable in congregational activities to make comments or behave in a way that may be considered offensive, harassing or bullying with regard to race, culture, or beliefs.

Communication

• 'Do not use harmful words, but only helpful words, the kind that build up and provide what is needed, so that what you say will do good to those who hear you.' Ephesians 4:29 (TEV)

We acknowledge the importance of good communication and will

1. communicate courteously, openly and honestly;
2. listen with understanding;
3. refrain from communicating in an offensive, abusive, intimidating, sarcastic or patronising manner.

Collaboration and teamwork

• 'You are joined together with peace through the Spirit, so make every effort to continue together in this way.' Ephesians 4:3 (NCV)

We recognise that we will as members of the Congregation

1. work collaboratively;
2. share knowledge;
3. share responsibility;
4. respect the rights of others;
5. be realistic in our expectations of others; and
6. acknowledge individual and group achievements.

Stewardship

We acknowledge that we are entrusted with the responsibility of Congregational resources. We will exercise wise and careful stewardship of all Congregational resources with care and responsibility at all times.

Monitoring and improvement

This Code of Conduct will be reviewed annually in November.

Related policies and procedures

EmailEtiquetteGuidelines, especially guidelines concerning content.

SocialMediaPolicy, especially guidelines concerning content.

References

Equal Opportunity Act 2010
Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission Act, 1986 (Cth) b) listen with understanding;
Racial Discrimination Act, 1975 (Cth)
Sex Discrimination Act, 1984(Cth)
Theology and Principles of the Uniting Church as an Employer.