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A Sacred Trust

This text explores the intricate relationship between professional ethics, sexuality, and justice in ministry. It highlights the importance of boundaries, the dynamics of power, and the ethical obligations of those in ministerial roles toward their communities. By addressing vital issues such as relational abuse and professional misconduct, it encourages a shift from individual morality to a collective ethical stance. The principles of Hebrew hospitality and responsible relational practices are underscored to restore trust and ensure the integrity of ministerial relationships.

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A Sacred Trust

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  1. A Sacred Trust Professional and Ministerial Ethics

  2. Sexuality and Justice • A Neglected Perspective.

  3. Restoring Right Relationships • The Work of Justice.

  4. Sex & Power • Context for Relational Abuse.

  5. Sexual Sin: Violation of Persons • Moving from a private morality to a communal ethic.

  6. Prophetic Vision • Hebrew Hospitality Codes.

  7. You shall not molest the widow, the orphan, or the alien. • Because when you were aliens, I was your Go’el (‘next of kin,’ or protector). Hebrew Hospitality Codes

  8. Gospel Vision • John 10: The good shepherd.

  9. Model Minister • ‘Anyone who goes out and comes in through me, will find safe pasture…’ • John 10

  10. The Illusion of Powerlessness • The temptation to over-idealize our role as servants.

  11. Illusion: “I don’t feel powerful…” Illusion vs. Reality

  12. Illusion: “I don’t feel powerful…” • Reality: My title/role has public status. My behavior puts pressure on others. Illusion vs. Reality

  13. Position, Status, Role (authority). • Title: Reverend, Pastor, Doctor, Sister, Chairperson, President, etc. • Age • Gender • Race. Sources of Power

  14. Physical, Psychological Strength. • Education, Information, Expertise. • Experience. • Financial Resources, Possessions. • Personality (charm, persuasiveness). • Sexual Orientation. Sources of Power

  15. Power Abuse Any time I use my resources and advantages to harm others, or benefit myself at their expense.

  16. What are ‘Boundaries’? • “The sanctity of the self within a relationship…”

  17. Breaking A Vow: • For example violating a marital commitment or religious vow of celibacy. • Malpractice: • Abusing fiduciary power by violating professional or ministerial boundaries. An Important Difference

  18. Intimacy Needs Primary: • Immediate family, spouse, or partner. • Closest circle of friends.

  19. Intimacy Needs Secondary: • Co-workers and colleagues. • Faith communities and those served.

  20. Preventing Boundary Violations • Develop good self-knowledge. • Maintain healthy friendships. • Deal with disappointments, anger, loneliness.

  21. Preventing Boundary Violations • Appropriate time and setting for appointments. • Seek supervision. • Maintain balance in work, play, prayer.

  22. More than one role with same person. • In some professions these are unethical. • For example, physicians, psychologists, psychotherapists. Dual Relationships

  23. In ministerial settings, dual relationships are • Inevitable • Sometimes necessary • More responsibility on the minister • To keep healthy boundaries • Maintain responsible relationships Dual Relationships & Ministry

  24. What is my role of service… • With this person? • At this time? • Under these circumstances? The Central Questions

  25. Who is the focus? • Is this about helping this person? • Or is it about meeting my needs? The Central Questions

  26. Professional-------Friendship--------Lover Maximum Professional Effectiveness _____________________________________ Maximum Mutual Intimacy Relationship Continuum

  27. Unconscious Feelings/Needs Attachment (positive or negative) Transference Transference

  28. Keeping Responsible Relationships • The integrity of the ministerial relationship.

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