St. Stephen's Episcopal Youth Community Covenant
I want to love others as Christ loves me and will therefore respect the boundaries, needs, and dignity of others - sexually, racially, health-related, and otherwise - and will refrain from inappropriate behavior, including, but not limited to, bullying, gossiping, name-calling, teasing or mocking, commenting on someone’s appearance, using explicit language, discussing inappropriate material, or physical altercations. My actions will show my love for Jesus and others. I will approach all youth events and activities with an open mind, welcoming the opportunity to meet new people, try new things, grow in faith, look for ways to serve others and have fun.
I realize that the leadership helping to facilitate events and activities care about my well-being. I want them to know that I appreciate their commitment to this community. Therefore, I agree to abide by the expectations of chaperones and leaders regarding the schedule of events, and prescribed boundaries, and I will treat all leadership personnel with respect.
I want to stay focused on building a more Christ-like community and growing in my own faith. I will be present - both physically and mentally - for the entirety of any youth events and activities as I am able. Therefore, I will only use electronic devices (phones, gaming consoles, tablets, electronic watches, etc.) when it is not distracting from and disruptive to the community.
NON-NEGOTIABLE: I am aware that my actions affect people other than just myself and I want all members of my community to feel safe and secure. I agree to not bring or use alcohol, illegal drugs, tobacco products of any kind (including vape pens), firearms, explosives, knives, or fireworks to the host site. I also agree to be respectful of the space and host site and will not damage, steal, or misuse the property or equipment of the host site, or that of my peers.
I understand that the above expectations are designed to create a safe and healthy environment for the whole community. I want to help this community grow and show the love of Christ, so I will adhere to these guidelines. I understand that if I choose to break any of these community covenants, a conversation with myself, my parents, the youth ministry coordinator, and possibly a clergy member may be required to decide how to best move forward.