Using a Transformative Justice Approach to Creatively Engage Conflict
Right Relations
Right Relations
All Souls Church strives to build Beloved Community both within and beyond our congregation. Internally, this means being explicit in how we treat each other, as well as what happens when conflict arises–as it will!
If you wish to support the strengthening of right relations in our community, two volunteer options exist. The Committee on Right Relations is looking for one to two more members as it ramps up the work of creating a Transformative Justice framework for All Souls church. The committee is strongly engaged in building a transformative justice practice at All Souls Church with support from experienced facilitators hired through funding from the Beckner Advancement Fund and the UU Funding Program. New members would assist in implementing that initiative. The committee also helps address interpersonal conflicts by engaging mediators to facilitate dialogue and resolution on an as needed basis.
If you wish to volunteer as a mediator or committee member, please reach out to crr.allsouls(at)gmail.com
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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The Committee on Right Relations (CRR) exists to help process conflicts between congregants and between congregants and the church’s staff, its executive team, and its board of trustees.
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Yes, the CRR is implementing the portions of the Covenant which state:
We resolve conflicts directly, using openness and compassion, and we:
make every effort to settle differences directly and openly,
stay engaged with each other through difficult conversations,
hold ourselves responsible for hearing all sides.
We listen with respect and attention and speak with care.
We acknowledge our mistakes and shortcomings and are willing to forgive those of others.
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The CRR has designed a conflict resolution process for disagreements between congregants, or congregants and staff, or committees/groups. Most conflicts can be addressed either by:
1. Parties involved work it out. Parties resolve differences themselves. They receive education/training and apply Right Relations Guidance Coaching – one or both parties may benefit from the help of a person experienced with conflict resolution to help them gain additional skills or techniques to resolve the situation themselves.
2. Facilitated discussion with the help of a Right Relations Team member. In some instances, parties may simply wish to have a third party lead a conversation for the purpose of assisting parties in understanding/mediation.
If you would like to start a conversation, please email crr.allsouls(at)gmail.com. Confidentiality is assured. The CRR will neither disclose the names of parties involved nor the content or substance of matters brought to it unless disclosure is reasonably believed to be necessary to avoid physical or substantial financial harm, or is required by law.
Right Relations Resources
The UUA also offers suggestions for handling conflicts at www.uua.org/safe/conflict