Rev. Kevin Cameron
Pray.
Be accountable. Take
responsibility. Take others
seriously.
Do not take it all personally. Realize that people have baggage, history.
Establish, adjust, and maintain healthy boundaries.
Do not allow personal attacks to take place.
Remain pastoral at all costs, keep integrity intact.
Do not judge others.
Refrain from drawing lines in the sand.
Encourage group to stop, pray, breath, stretch in the midst
of a tough meeting.
Identify and agree on what the issues are.
Name the pain - do not withhold tears.
Seek Scripture (i.e. Matthew 18:15-20)
Do not succumb to the temptations of misusing the pulpit.
Ask the profound and popular questions -
What would Jesus do?
Is it good for the children?
Stay on task and be aware of time limitations and
commitments.
When necessary, set deadlines/timetables and adhere to them.
Provide a non-anxious presence, especially when it is
difficult to do so.
Keep strict confidences.
Broaden the conversation by pondering what would be said if
other persons or congregational constituents were present or represented in the
discussion.
Be open to a new angle or perspective-even from an
unexpected source.
Know when to be completely moderate. Express personal
opinions sparingly.
Find out if more information might be needed; research
educational pieces.
Discern when to consult outside support (i.e. Association or
Conference).
Be aware of the mysterious and transforming power of God.
Circle back; review steps along the way.
Ask some tough questions.
Stimulate discussion. Open doors
for frank communication.
Encourage personal and communal prayer around the particular
concern and the process underway.
Do not take over a conversation or a group.
Give people the time and space they need.
Pray for the people on all sides of the issue.
Stay in covenant; agree to disagree; seek common ground - it
is there.
Learn from the experience as you expect healthier conflict
in the future.
Modify policy or produce new policy where appropriate.
Create opportunities for healing, reconnection, renewal,
successes.
Remain open to the Spirit.
Keep praying