covenant / values:

Covenant: 

A covenant is a written agreement or promise between

two or more parties for the performance of some action. 

Our covenant includes issues related to both values and

procedures for the effectiveness and cohesiveness of the group.  As followers and disciples of Jesus Christ who bear the name “children of God”, each member of this group agrees to uphold these values and procedures through our words and deeds and “…to walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received.  Be completely humble and gentle: be patient, bearing with one another in love.  Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”

(Eph. 4:1-3, John 1:12, 1John 3:1-3)

Values: 

We acknowledge God as sovereign over this support group.  We proclaim

Jesus Christ as our personal Lord and Savior and the leader in truth of this group.  We seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit for all issues pertaining to this group. 

(Rom. 5:1,5, John 14:6, Isa. 26:8, 1Tim. 2:5)

    We believe the Holy Scriptures are God’s inspired word and, therefore, agree to prayerfully seek biblical wisdom when faced with the need to resolve issues within

the group.  (2Tim 3:15-17, Heb 4:12, 2Sam. 7:28, Isa. 55:11, Prov. 30:5-6)

    Because each family has its own denomination, we will each focus on our

foundation in Christ and try to avoid strife in our support group.

(Prov 20:3, Rom. 14:1, Col. 3:12-17, Eph. 5:21)

    We will contribute to a climate of grace and trust by offering encouragement and speaking truth in love and praying for one another. 

(1Thes.5:11, Eph. 4:29, Eph. 4:15-16, James 5:16, 1John 4:4-6)

    We view each member and their contributions as valuable.  Contributions could be e.g. official positions, coordinators of activities, copying newsletters, some effort that is for the cohesiveness of the group no matter how big or small, etc. 

(1Pet. 4:10, 1Thes 5:11-15, Matt. 25:40)

    We will show respect by keeping confidential personal information shared within the group.  (Prov. 11:12-13, 1Pet. 3:8)

    In order to assure the spiritual safety of all the children, we will adhere to the scriptural principles of purity and prudence during our time together.  We will only bring peaceful and life affirming toys to our group’s activities.

(Prov. 3:7-8, Prov. 2:11, 12a, Rom. 14:13, Gal. 5:22-23)

    We welcome non-members, and all are free to participate in our activities as long as they understand and honor our vision, mission and covenant.  We require that all participants in our group activities respect the values of this group and behave according to our group’s procedures and protocol. 

(Rom. 1:16,  Acts 15:7-9, 1Cor. 2:4-5, Matt. 5:15-16)