CODE OF CONDUCT
New Apostolic Church Canada ("the Church")
MAINTAINING CONDUCT IN THE CHURCH
This Code of Conduct (“this Code”) sets out standards and principles that express loving faithfulness and service to God, our heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, His Son, as a code of conduct while attending divine services at the Church as well as participating in other activities that are part of the Church’s congregational life, whether as a member of the Church or as a guest. Members and guests are to conduct themselves in the above mentioned activities in a manner consistent with principles of Church scripture. All are encouraged to establish spiritual disciplines that will foster and promote a deep intimate relationship with God, which is essential to a personal faith life and the welfare of the congregation.
The Church does not condone nor accept the following conduct, viewing such conduct as being incompatible with Christian standards and values:
- Breach of trust or confidence (Matthew 5.37; 19.18; Philippians 4.8; 1 John 3.3);
- Lying or deceit (Matthew 5.37; 19.19; Ephesians 4.25, 29);
- Theft or fraud (Exodus 20.15.17; Matthew 5.37);
- Physical aggression (Leviticus 18; Philippians 4.8; 1 Timothy 5.22, 1 John 3.3);
- Abusive behaviour (Leviticus 18; Philippians 4.8; 1 Timothy 5.22, 1 John 3.3);
- Sexual assault/harassment (Leviticus 18; 1 Timothy 5.22; 1 John 3.3);
- Using illicit drugs (Philippians 4.8; 1 Timothy 5.22; 1 John 3.3); and
- Criminal activity (Exodus 20.12-17; Matthew 5.37; 1 John 3.3).
RESTORATION PROCESS
In the event of a violation or breach of this Code, the Church will attempt to bring about the restoration of the individual, dependent upon the nature and extent of the violation or breach. The restorative process entails a three stage process. Engagement in the second and/or third stages is at the total and sole discretion of the Church. (contd.)
An individual engaged in the first or second stages of the restorative process may be relieved of their active participation in the Church until the restorative process contemplated by this Code is concluded.
The first stage shall consist of a review of the individual’s violation or breach by the rector and/or the district rector together with the individual.
The second stage entails facilitation of the “restorative” process, which is dependent on the repentance by the individual in reference to the conduct complained of, and on the nature and severity of the breach or violation. The Church may recommend to the individual that, among other things, he/she undergo professional counselling and assessments. The Church may also apply a probationary period or off limits order whereby the individual shall be relieved of active participation in the Church to allow for the correction of his/her conduct or behaviour. When restoration is deemed complete and is determined to be successful,
as determined in the sole discretion of the Church, the Church may reinstate the individual to active participation in the congregation, and provide ongoing support for, and request ongoing accountability of, the individual and lift any such off limits order.
The third stage is the termination of the relationship between the individual and the Church. As the violation of this Code by an individual is recognized by the Church as a fundamental breach of the relationship, the individual accepts that the Church may in its sole discretion excommunicate the individual without notice and with or without engagement in the restorative process contemplated in the second stage.