Unitarian Universalism is a convenantal faith tradition. When we become a member and leaders of the UUCJ congregation, we agree to affirm and abide by the following covenants. All congregants agree to uphold the UUCJ Behavioral Covenant.

Using the principles adopted by our association of congregations we covenant together to model to the best of our abilities these principles with each other:

The inherent worth and dignity of every person;

We will listen actively, for understanding, and remember to speak, not for the group, but for ourselves alone.

Justice, equity and compassion in human relations;

We will offer direct and open communication talking with rather than about each other. We will address private conflicts away from public times and places.  If mediation is desired, we will seek out the CALM committee members, instead of other uninvolved parties.

Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations;

We will seek and value the opinions and knowledge of each other concerning the effective ministry of this church community.  We will uphold the importance of both acceptance and boundaries within healthy congregational relationships.  We will engage with those from whom we differ, not to discount or antagonize, but to deepen the relationships and to enrich ourselves.

A free and responsible search for truth and meaning;

Practicing patience with the process nature of group dialogue, we will avoid interrupting, monopolizing, antagonizing, digressing from the focus, and abandoning the dialogue.

The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large;

We will be respectful toward group leaders and will honor democratic protocols of orderly conduct, such as “starting” and “closing” times, ensuring that everyone has opportunity to speak and be heard, and not distracting others while someone is addressing the entire group.

We will accept the conscience of the group, and the results of group process made both when we were either present or absent.

The goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all;

We will begin by seeking peace, liberty and justice for all within our own congregation and community in which we live.

Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part.

We will show respect of all existence by honoring each other’s presence and contributions as cultivating that independent web of our community and by honoring the gifts of the earth through conservation, stewardship and care in the fulfilling of our tasks.

Adopted at the congregation’s Annual Meeting March 30, 2008

Board Members agree to uphold the Board Covenant.

We the members of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Jackson Board of Trustees do covenant to –

• • ­Act with a spirit of compassion and kindness
  • Focus on growth
  • ­Ensure healthy functioning, empowerment, and accountability
  • ­Act with good faith and presume others are also acting with good faith
  • ­Practice humility, deep listening, and openness
  • ­Build relationships among the Board members
  • Work towards our spiritual growth through service.

Adopted at the Board Retreat – July 11, 2020