This Code of Conduct outlines the expected behaviours and ethical standards for the clergy and members of ministry teams at Evangelical Faith Church. It is designed to ensure that all individuals serving in these capacities reflect the values of the Church, maintain integrity in their actions, and uphold their spiritual, moral, and professional responsibilities.

2. Core Values

Clergy and ministry team members are expected to embody the following core values:

  • Integrity: Demonstrating honesty, consistency, and transparency in all actions.
  • Humility: Serving with a heart of humility and putting others’ needs before personal gain.
  • Compassion: Showing love, care, and empathy for all members of the congregation and the wider community.
  • Accountability: Taking responsibility for actions and decisions.
  • Spiritual Growth: Pursuing personal and collective spiritual development in accordance with Biblical principles.

3. General Conduct

3.1. Personal Conduct

  • Clergy and ministry team members shall maintain a high standard of personal integrity and moral behaviour, as outlined by Biblical teachings.
  • They shall avoid any behaviour or situation that could bring the Church into disrepute or cause scandal.
  • They must abstain from any form of immorality, including sexual misconduct, dishonesty, substance abuse, and financial impropriety.

3.2. Spiritual Commitment

  • Clergy and ministry team members are expected to engage in personal prayer, Bible study, and fasting regularly to nurture their relationship with God.
  • They should actively participate in Church services, programmes, and prayer meetings, leading by example in their spiritual dedication.

3.3. Professional Conduct

  • Clergy and ministry team members should carry out their responsibilities with professionalism, competence, and diligence.
  • They are expected to be punctual, prepared, and organised in their roles within the Church.

3.4. Financial Integrity

  • Clergy and ministry team members are required to handle Church finances with the utmost care and transparency.
  • They must avoid any form of financial impropriety, including embezzlement or mismanagement of funds.
  • Church financial resources shall only be used for approved Church activities and in line with the Church’s financial policies.

3.5. Dress Code

  • Clergy and ministry team members should maintain an appropriate dress code that reflects respect for their role and the congregation.
  • Modesty and professionalism should be observed at all times during Church services and official functions.

4. Conduct in Relationships

4.1. Relationship with Congregation Members

  • Clergy and ministry team members must demonstrate respect, kindness, and love to all members of the Church.
  • They should maintain appropriate boundaries in their interactions with congregation members and avoid any form of exploitation or manipulation.
  • They are expected to exercise confidentiality in counselling and pastoral care, except where required by law or to prevent harm.

4.2. Relationship with Fellow Clergy and Ministry Teams

  • Mutual respect, cooperation, and support are expected among all clergy and ministry team members.
  • They should refrain from gossip, slander, or undermining fellow leaders.
  • Conflict resolution should follow the biblical model of reconciliation, addressing disputes privately and seeking peaceful resolution.

4.3. Relationship with the Wider Community

  • Clergy and ministry team members must be positive representatives of the Church in the wider community.
  • They should actively engage in evangelism and outreach, sharing the love of Christ through service, while respecting the beliefs of others.

5. Ethical Standards

5.1. Honesty and Truthfulness

  • Clergy and ministry team members must always be truthful and transparent in their dealings, both within and outside the Church.
  • Any form of deceit, misrepresentation, or dishonesty is strictly prohibited.

5.2. Abuse of Power

  • Clergy and ministry team members are prohibited from using their position of authority for personal gain, manipulation, or control over others.
  • They must avoid any behaviour that exploits or harms the physical, emotional, or spiritual well-being of others.

5.3. Respect for Diversity

  • Evangelical Faith Church embraces a diverse congregation. Clergy and ministry team members must treat all individuals with respect and dignity, regardless of race, gender, socioeconomic status, or background.

5.4. Safeguarding Vulnerable People

  • Clergy and ministry team members must ensure the safety and protection of vulnerable individuals, including children, elderly members, and individuals in crisis.
  • Any suspicion or evidence of abuse must be reported immediately, in line with the Church’s safeguarding policy.

6. Conflict of Interest

  • Clergy and ministry team members should avoid situations where their personal, financial, or professional interests conflict with their responsibilities to the Church.
  • They are required to disclose any potential conflicts of interest to the Church’s leadership.

7. Use of Social Media

  • Clergy and ministry team members should use social media platforms responsibly, ensuring that their posts, comments, and interactions align with the values of the Church.
  • They should refrain from sharing inappropriate or divisive content and maintain respect for the privacy of others.

8. Disciplinary Actions

  • Any clergy or ministry team member who violates this Code of Conduct may be subject to disciplinary action by the Church leadership, including:
  • Counselling and guidance.
  • Temporary suspension from ministry duties.
  • Permanent removal from leadership positions, depending on the severity of the violation.
    • Disciplinary actions will follow the Church’s procedures for resolving misconduct, ensuring fairness and accountability.

9. Amendments

This Code of Conduct may be amended or updated by the Urgent Mission Council (UMC) as necessary to ensure it remains relevant and effective in promoting the values of the Church.

10. Acknowledgement

All clergy and ministry team members agree to adhere to this Code of Conduct once they accept their appointment.