Codes of Conduct

Congregational Policy: Code of Conduct 

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

1. 1. respect and care for every individual;

   2. inclusion;

   3. justice;

   4. integrity;

   5. compassion;

   6. co-operation and achieving through teams;

   7. wise stewardship

 The Congregation’s Code of Conduct is based on these values and provides guidelines for all members on the appropriate way to interact with clients, colleagues, volunteers, visitors, and members of the general public. By adhering to these guidelines, we will all contribute to the development of a warm and friendly environment, focused on supporting one another and living God’s will for us in our community.

 Our Calling

Recognising that we are a diverse congregation, each of us on a faith journey, as a people we journey together affirming our calling under God:

1. to preach Christ the crucified and risen one and confess him as Lord

2. to bear witness to the unity of faith and life in Christ, rising above cultural, economic, national and racial boundaries

3. to speak out against social evils which deny God's active will for justice and peace

4. to act with God alongside the oppressed, the hurt and the poor

5. to accept responsibility for the wise use and conservation of the finite resources of this earth for the benefit of all

6. to recognise, treasure and use the gifts of the Spirit given to all God's people for ministering

7. and to live a creative, adventurous life of faith, characterised by openness, flexibility, hope and joy.

 Consideration should be given to our calling in seeking guidance and interpretation surrounding this policy. 

Scope

This policy applies to all members, adherents and staff of Queanbeyan Uniting Church.

Principles Underpinning Process 

1. 1. Natural justice/procedural fairness

   2. Equity

   3.  Understanding of Power

   4. Confidentiality

 Further Assistance

Anyone who requires further assistance in understanding or applying this policy can contact a member of the Church Council.

Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed as required.

Policy in Practice

 The practical application of this policy will be demonstrated by all members in several ways including, but not restricted to, care and respect, communication, collaboration and teamwork,

 Respect

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

1. 1.  treat others with dignity and respect;

   2. behave courteously and without prejudice at all times;

   3. respect the right of others to confidentiality;

   4. value colleagues, their gifts and contributions.

 Communication

We acknowledge the importance of good workplace communication and will

1. 1. communicate courteously, openly and honestly;

   2. listen with understanding;

   3. refrain from communicating in a discourteous, abusive, intimidating, sarcastic or patronising manner.

 Collaboration and teamwork

We recognise that we are all part of the Congregational team and will

1. 1.  work collegiately and collaboratively in all our endeavours;

   2. seek to support and build up one another that we might embrace opportunities for growth in faith and the proficiency of our works;

   3. share knowledge, responsibility and accountability for its right and just use in all that we do;

   4.  acknowledge and respect the views and rights of others, keeping in mind what unites us when we differ in thought;

   5. be not demanding but realistic in our expectations of others; and

   6. acknowledge and celebrate as part of the congregational family individual and group achievements.

Stewardship

We will exercise wise and careful stewardship of all Congregational resources with care and responsibility at all times.

 This policy is based on the Code of Conduct prepared by the Synod of Victoria and Tasmania, Uniting Church of Australia.

See the Congregation Policy: Code of Conduct PDF version