ANGLICAN DIOCESE OF GRAFTON

Being Together

Expectations of behaviour in our church community

 Jesus told us to love one another as he loves us. As Christians we know our life together is strengthened when our behaviour is consistent with our faith. However, our experience of being together can be difficult, particularly when there are differences. So it is important to be clear about how we will behave towards each other.

Being a community:

• We will value the wellbeing and safety of others, especially children and other vulnerable people.
• We will encourage each other to participate in the life of the church.
• We will consider the impact of our behaviour on others.

Relating to each other:

• We will protect the safety of all, especially children and other vulnerable people.
• We will treat each other with respect and dignity, irrespective of ability, gender, sexuality, race, age or contribution to the church.
• We will act with integrity and honesty in our interactions with each other.

Communicating with each other:

• We will communicate respectfully with others, and not in a way that threatens, belittles or humiliates.
• We will speak with integrity and honesty, and refrain from speculation and gossip.

Acknowledging difference:

• We will respect those who are different from us and not isolate or ridicule them.
• We will listen to and seek to understand the beliefs, opinions and practices of others, even when we do not share their views.

Responding to conflict:

• We will accept responsibility for our part in a conflict.
• We will be willing to play our part in resolving a conflict.

Resolution 45/14 of the General Synod of the Anglican Church of Australia 2014 “Being Together”, amended April 2021

 Endorsed by resolution of the Bishop-in-Council of the Diocese of Grafton 21 February 2019 and amendments endorsed 16 September 2021