Staff Member Covenant--Calvary Memorial Church

Last year for the first time, we instituted a staff covenant that everyone who works at the church must sign once a year. This helps everyone on staff know what we expect. This morning I signed my covenant for 2005. I am printing the covenant here because it might be helpful to other churches.

I realize that as a staff member of Calvary Memorial Church, I am accountable to Biblical standards that exceed the legal demands of other organizations. I must view my work as a sacred trust from God and an opportunity to serve Him (2 Corinthians 4:1-3, 1 Peter 4:10, etc.).

I realize that I am responsible to glorify God in all things and live a life pleasing to Him (1 Corinthians 9:27, 2 Corinthians 7:1, etc.). I understand that my employment requires faithful obedience to the Word of God in my private conduct as well as my workplace behavior. I may be dismissed for any actions contrary to His Word, as determined by the sole discretion of my employer. Such actions include, but are not limited to:

• Dishonesty
• Disrespect to others
• Divisiveness
• Financial misconduct
• Insubordination
• Substance abuse
• Sexual harassment
• Sexual immorality  

I realize that I am responsible to uphold the teachings and practices of Calvary Memorial Church (Ephesians 4:14-15, 2 Timothy 3:16-17, etc). I understand that my employment requires wholehearted support for the church’s Statement of Faith and its Constitution.

I realize that I am responsible to work in partnership with the other staff members of Calvary Memorial Church. I understand that my employment requires submission to my supervisor and cooperation with all my co-workers. I will endeavor to follow Biblical guidelines for resolving conflicts (Matthew 18:15-17, Luke 6:31, etc.).

I realize that I am responsible to fulfill the specific tasks that have been assigned to me at Calvary Memorial Church (1 Corinthians 4:2, Colossians 3:22-23, etc.). I understand that I may be dismissed if, in the sole judgment of my supervisors, I fail to carry out those tasks adequately.

I realize that I am responsible to protect the financial integrity of Calvary Memorial Church (2 Corinthians 8:20-21, Hebrews 13:18, etc.). I understand that I must declare any potential conflicts of interest for myself or family members who may benefit by doing business with the church.

I realize that I will be expected to participate in the regular staff evaluation process. This process is designed to communicate expectations clearly, encourage excellence, and correct problems. It includes, but is not limited to, an annual performance review.

I realize that my employment at Calvary Memorial Church is voluntary. I am free to end my employment at any time by giving reasonable notice. Likewise, the Church is free to discontinue my employment at any time by giving reasonable notice.

Name: Ray Pritchard
Position: Senior Pastor
Date: December 29, 2004

To sign up for Pastor Ray's free weekly sermon email list, click  here. You can find his daily weblog, online sermons, travel schedule, and other resources at  www.keepbelieving.com. You can write Pastor Ray at raypritchard@calvarymemorial.com.