New World Youth Covenant of Conduct
During the youth ministry meetings, events, and trips under the sponsorship and guidance of New World United Methodist Church, I recognize that I am a representative of the Christian Community and I am responsible for my actions. I understand that by signing this Covenant, I agree to abide by the following guidelines:
I Shall
- Recognize that everyone in the student group is a part of the body of Christ. I will embrace inclusiveness by making sure that everyone feels welcome, safe, and important.
- Respect the physical and emotional well-being of other students and adults by “doing unto them as I would have them do unto me,” and exemplifying the love of Christ. 1 Corinthians 13: 4-7 “Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.” (This includes refraining from harsh play or violence, refraining from harmful jokes, respecting the need for sleep, etc.)
- Respect the health of my own body by refraining from the use of tobacco, alcohol, illegal drugs; this includes vaping. I understand that the use of these substances is absolutely prohibited.
- Respect the things I use and the property of places I visit. The areas used for all events, including transportation, shall be left clean.
- Participate fully in all scheduled group activities and abide by additional group guidelines made during a special event or trip.
- Act appropriately with members of the opposite sex. This means no couples alone at any time, and no public displays of affection.
- Follow all instructions given by student ministry leaders and chaperones without protest. (This does not mean an instruction may not be politely and discretely questioned if it seems unreasonable or inappropriate.)
- Stay within the group or assigned sub-group at all times. I will not wander off alone or leave the activity site unless granted permission by an adult, and I will report for all designated check-in times.
- Hold safety in the highest regard and refrain from compromising my own safety or another’s safety.
- Provide a trusting environment for my peers. When students share something about themselves in a group discussion, I will not repeat that information to other friends outside of the group.
- Take the initiative to inform my guests of their responsibility to follow these guidelines when they visit the student ministry group or participate in an event or trip.
Guidelines for Consequences
Consequences will focus on restoring peace with reconciliation among those involved. The goal of resolving each problem will be growth and learning through repentance and forgiveness. Any problems encountered will be handled within the group and by the adult leaders to the extent that this is possible. However, should a situation persist or become uncontrollable, the parent/guardian will be contacted and informed of the problem. Should the situation be urgent, the parent/guardian will be contacted immediately and will be responsible for picking up the student from an event or trip.
Student and Parent/Guardian Signature:
In signing this covenant, I vow that I have read and understand these guidelines. I recognize that a covenant is a binding promise, and my signature is testimony that I agree to adhere to the provisions of this covenant.
