Working with Churches and Faith Communities

Agree's mediators have a history of intervening effectively and thoughtfully in conflicts involving religious and faith communities. We have worked with a number of faiths and denominations, applying the principals of community-based collaboration for decision making in these unique settings. We can assist faith groups to address conflict in constructive ways that serve to strengthen the church and its members.

Our intervention model includes an intake screening session with the individuals involved. This permits us to identify and deal with any power issues that may be influencing the communication between or among the parties. We screen for such issues as physical, psychological or sexual abuse to ensure that mediation is only entered into in appropriate circumstances.

Agree's conflict management team will complete a thorough analysis of the conflict dynamics at work and make a joint recommendation to the parties of which dispute resolution approaches are most likely to be effective.

Interventions may include:

• Relationship building through Partnering
• Conflict management training
• Mediation
• Fact-finding
• Conflict coaching
• Referrals to other resources such as counselors or therapy where appropriate

We use sophisticated diagnostic tools such as the Strength Deployment Inventory and Personal Style Inventory to assist individuals in gaining insight into the conflict dynamics at work in their situation.

Agree recognizes the financial constraints that many faith communities operate within. We will work with you to develop a plan which is affordable and cost-effective for you.

If you want to bring a matter forward for mediation, simply complete the online application form, or call Agree and provide the particulars by phone.