Sacramental Community of the Coworkers of Christ

ARTICLE VII – SAFEGUARDING THE COMMUNITY

Section1: Establishment of a Board of Disciplinary Action

The Coworkers of Christ prioritize the safety and well-being of all members. This includes maintaining clear guidelines for addressing misconduct and upholding a fair disciplinary process.  The General Gathering may establish a Board of Disciplinary Action to handle disciplinary matters concerning members of the Sacramental Community of the Coworkers of Christ. This Board has the authority to 

impose a range of consequences, including suspension, removal, or deposition from membership, ministry, and the Community itself.

Section 2. Offenses and Reporting Procedures

The following actions constitute grounds for disciplinary action:

1. Sexual Misconduct: All forms of sexual misconduct are strictly prohibited. This includes any inappropriate behavior or contact, regardless of criminal charges. Anyone suspecting or experiencing sexual misconduct should report it immediately to the General Council and, if involving a minor, to law enforcement authorities as well. The Community forbids interaction with children and youth by anyone with a history of child sexual offenses or abuse. Suspected child abuse must also be reported to the General Council and law enforcement.

2. Doctrinal Disagreements: Publicly teaching doctrines that contradict the Core Doctrine and established Confession of Faith of the Coworkers of Christ.

3. Violations of the Common Rule: Breaches of the Community’s covenantal and governing rules.

1. Solemn Vows to the Community: Violations of public promises made during membership.

2. Vows of Ordination: Violations of promises made during ordination and or consecration.

3. Neglect of Ministerial Duties: Consistent failure to fulfill ministerial responsibilities.

Section 3. Presenting Charges

Formal charges must be submitted in writing and signed by at least three vowed members.

Section 4. Board of Disciplinary Action Composition 

The Board of Disciplinary Action is composed of the General Council.

Section 5. Disciplinary Process

1. Following a public disciplinary hearing, the General Council may require specific corrective actions from members, congregations, and ministries found to be negligent.

2. In cases of persistent neglect or contempt for the Community’s Common Rule, the General Council may temporarily suspend a member, a congregational parish, or ministry status for up to a year. A two-thirds majority vote of the General Council is required for any such action.

Section 6. Appeals Process

The General Gathering, chaired by the Vicar General, serves as a Spiritual Board of Review for judgments issued by the Board of Disciplinary Action for members, congregations and or ministries. This Spiritual Board of Review may uphold, extend, or make permanent the original disciplinary actions.

Section 7. Voting and Sentencing

1. A majority vote by secret ballot decides the outcome of any case.

2. All judgments require the endorsement of the General Council before being officially issued. Such sentences are issued under the seal of the Vicar General.

3. Individuals found guilty of persistently teaching doctrines contrary to the Community’s core beliefs may be subject to expulsion, but only if they refuse to publicly recant their views. The General Council, upon recommendation from the Spiritual Board of Review, holds the sole authority to call for expulsion from the Community.

Section 8. Emphasis on Fairness and Restoration:

The Coworkers of Christ strive to maintain a disciplinary process that is fair, transparent, and restorative whenever possible. The ultimate goal is to ensure the safety and well-being of all members while upholding the core values and teachings of the Sacramental Community of the Coworkers of Christ.