Code of Ethics for all members of the clergy of the CCEF
The Corpus Christi Ecumenical Fellowship herein referred to as the CCEF is
composed of independent ministers each working as an agent unto
themselves in their respective ministries, and as such, neither he
nor she is, nor can be an agent of the other. No minister or member
is responsible for the action(s) of a minister of The CCEF nor is the
CCEF responsible for the actions of the individual minister.
The CCEF reminds all ministers working as Pastoral Counselors
that confidentially is not extended in all cases to ministers, even
with the seal of confession at stake. A minister may be summoned to
court and ordered to divulge what has been told to him/her even in a
counseling session. There is no law or blanket exemption which
protects a minister from that order. There is a privilege, which
exists and can be taken away at any time, at the discretion of the
courts.
We remind everyone that is unethical and in some states may be
illegal to engage in sexual contact with a client or person under
your care and this extends to people within your church, where you
are seen as an authority figure. We also strongly remind any
minister who hears about abuse or a crime even in a counseling
session that they are obligated to report it to the proper
authorities.
We also remind any minister that illegal behavior is not now and
never will be condoned and if an allegation is put forth we will
investigate the allegation to the best of our abilities in a fair
and ethical manner, and if necessary, take steps to resolve this,
even if it means taking away the credentials of ministry issued by
the Corpus Christi Ecumenical Fellowship and returning them to laity. In an
effort to maintain fairness, and to exclude those allegations which
are merely devices to place shame upon a minister or brought in a
manner which is clearly malicious, slanderous or libelous, the
following will be adhered to:
All persons making the allegation, whether by email, postal mail,
telephone or in person, must identify themselves using their true
name. Proof of identity will be required.
All persons making an allegation must provide their true address,
telephone number and email address. These will be verified.
Anonymous allegations and complaints will not be accepted. If the
person who is making an allegation does not have the courage of
their convictions in order to properly identify themselves, then
the allegation or complaint will be viewed as lacking substance,
merit and credibility.
Allegations or complaints or a nature so serious that they may
require immediate action will be forwarded to the proper
authorities without delay.
During the course of the investigation, if any, of a complaint or
allegation against a member of the clergy of this Church, the CCEF
assumes no responsibility or liability for the actions of the
clergy member while the matter is being investigated prior to
resolution and while the member remains in ministerial status.
We also remind all Bishops that being a Bishop does not infer or
extend any special or preferential treatment to them and that the same
rules apply to them as well.