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o.ss.t.position paper
Code of Ethics for Churches
Code of Ethics for Churches
The Christian Church is the Body of Christ and is destined to be His Bride. Inasmuch as every local church is an expression of the whole Body it is needful for her to be committed to vigilance in all of her relationships:
In Relationship to Christ
Believing that Jesus Christ is the Head of the Church...
We will honor and exalt Him in all of our relationships and ministries. We will keep ourselves free from all policies and practices which might tend to mar the beauty of the Bride of Christ.
In Relationship to Fellow-Members
Believing that the local church is an expression of the family of God...
We will promote unity among the members of the congregation, resisting all jealousy, rivalry, self-seeking, and division which would disturb that unity.
We will “... make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.” (Romans 14:19)
In Relationship to Other Churches
Believing that the Church is a universal body...
We will attempt to maintain honorable relationships with other churches in the community.
In Relationship to the Community
Believing that the witness of the church in the community affects the ministry of that church to the community and reflects on Christ, the Head of the Church...
We will endeavor to keep our dealings with agencies, businesses, and individuals in the community honest and above reproach.
In Relationship to the Order
Believing that our membership in the Order of the Most Holy Mary Theotokos is not only a privilege but also involves responsibility...
We will fulfill our fellowship, ministry, and financial obligations to the Order to the best of our ability.
We will uphold the doctrines and principles of the Order.
In Relationship to the Pastor and Other Leaders of the Church
Believing that the pastor and other spiritual leaders are shepherds of Christ’s flock...
We will love, honor and submit to them as they, by example and word, watch over our souls.
We will support the pastor financially so that he/she may be able to meet his/her obligations without bringing reproach upon him/herself or us.
We will not allow anything among us that would undermine the pastor’s ministry or rob him/her of the confidence of the church and the community.
We will endeavor to respond to all criticism dealing with the pastor, other spiritual leaders, or their families in an honorable manner, not tolerating subversive or clandestine meetings.
Whenever legitimate criticism or charges against anyone arise, we will follow Scriptural direction for church discipline, always with a desire for reconciliation and restoration and always making use of the cloak of love.