Seeking To Be Faithful Together
Guidelines for Presbyterians During Times of Disagreement
In a spirit of rust and love, we promise each other that we will:
1. Treat each other respectfully, so as to build trust, believing that we all desire to be faithful to Jesus the Christ; we will keep our conversations and communications open for candid and forthright exchange, we will not ask questions or make statements in a way which will intimidate or judge others.
2. Share our concerns directly with individuals or groups with whom we have disagreements in a spirit of love and respect in keeping with Jesus' teaching.
3. Critique ideas and suggestions instead of people's motives, intelligence or integrity.
4. Learn about various positions on the topic or disagreement.
5. State what we think we heard and ask for clarification before responding, in an effort to be sure we understand each other.
6. Indicate where we agree with those of other viewpoints as well as where we disagree.
7. Share our personal experiences about the subject of disagreement so that others may more fully understand our concerns.
8. Seek to stay in community with each other though the discussion may be vigorous and full of tension; we will be ready to give and be forgiven.
9. Follow this additional guidelines: urge persons of various points of view to speak and promise to listen to these positions seriously; seek conclusions informed by our points of agreement; be sensitive to the feelings and concerns of those who do not agree with the majority and respect their rights of conscience; abide by the decision of the majority, and if we disagree with it and wish to change it, work for that change in which are consistent with these guidelines.
10. Include our disagreements on our prayers, not praying for the triumph of our viewpoints, but seeking God's grace to listen attentively, to speak clearly, and to remain open to the vision God holds for us all.