GC45 WF28: COM02 Faith Workers Bill of Rights for Summer 2025

Nearly all groups who discussed COM02 were strongly opposed. A small number of groups saw value in protections and care for ministry personnel and other employees while still having concerns with this proposal as written. 

Many discussion groups expressed concern that the proposal would shift the church's theological understanding of ministry, making the covenantal relationship between ministry personnel and congregations into a form of secular employment. Additionally, some discussion groups expressed concern for the term “Faith Worker”.  

Further, the “Faith Workers Bill of Rights” largely duplicates the church’s existing policies found in ethical standards, in the “Creating Safe and Respectful Environments” policy, and in already existing access to counselling and mental health support available through the church's benefits plan.  

Therefore, the Way Forward Team proposes:  

That, in response to COM02 Faith Workers Bill of Rights, the 45th General Council, 2025, take no further action on COM02 Faith Workers Bill of Rights for Summer 2025