MINISTRY PORTAL

EYCDIOATL Community Covenant

It is the policy of the Episcopal Diocese of Atlanta (the “Diocese”) that all events and activities conducted by the Diocese or on its property observe the following guidelines, which are to be interpreted in a manner consistent with the mission and doctrine of The Episcopal Church.

1. Responsible officials will model and promote behavior that is aligned with the following Baptismal Covenant promises from the Book of Common Prayer: Continue in the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in the prayers; Persevere in resisting evil and, whenever falling into sin, repenting and returning to the Lord; Proclaim by word and example the Good News of God in Christ; Seek and serve Christ in all persons, loving your neighbor as yourself; Strive for justice and peace among all people, and respect the dignity of every human being.

2. Aggressive behavior towards Participants by any person are not to be tolerated.

3. Bullying, fighting, abusive or offensive language, and engaging in threats or coercion will not be tolerated.

4. Any activity that presents a serious risk of personal injury or emotional harm to any Participant or other person is prohibited.

5. Sexual conversation, advances, and/or unwanted, inappropriate, or offensive touching of Participants is prohibited.

6. Weapons or items that appear to be or create the impression of dangerous weapons are prohibited. Props for plays and games, kitchen utensils, utilitarian equipment and tools, and other items with a benign purpose that do not threaten Participants or create realistic and actual fear of harm are permitted if otherwise appropriate. For example, a bow and arrow at an archery event or a cutting tool on a camping trip may be appropriate under all of the circumstances.

7. At camp and all other facilities where accommodations can be made, students will be housed according to gender identity. In cases where nonbinary housing is unavailable, students will be housed where they are most comfortable.

8. In organizing and directing events, Responsible Officials shall consider the personal privacy interests and desires of all Participants, consistent with the type of event involved, the nature of the facilities and activities, and the interests of others.

9. Tobacco and nicotine products are not permitted at camp and shall not be used.

10. Illegal substances and other controlled substances for which the person in possession has no prescription are prohibited.

11. With the exception of receiving Eucharist, participants below the legal drinking age shall not ingest or have possession of alcoholic beverages.

12. Age-appropriate play and normal physical activities are permitted if they do not entail or threaten injury, offensive physical contact, or other improper conduct.

13. Discrimination on any basis prohibited by The Episcopal Church is not to be tolerated, consistent with other Diocesan policies.

Responsible Officials shall apply these rules using common sense and good judgment, and not in an arbitrary or unreasonable manner. Questions around policy implementation and discipline may be submitted to the Missioner.

For purposes of this policy, the following terms have the stated meaning:

 

  • “Participants” means children or youth participating in Diocesan events.

  • “Responsible Officials” means persons who are acting for or in cooperation with the Diocese or have any responsibilities or authority in connection with an event.