Created by Spirit community members, these are operating principles that guide how we work together and relate kindly to one another in all aspects of our community life. They reflect our community and support our mission and values. Spirit norms are not cast in stone but serve as a guidepost for our actions as we work and gather in our various ministries, programs, and initiatives. It is expected that these norms will grow and change as we live into them.
We welcome all.
We work to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued. We ensure that members who join remotely can participate as fully as possible in community life. We make a special effort to welcome newcomers.
We practice shared leadership.
As a lay-led community, we share responsibility for the tasks of community life. We call forth the gifts of our members and welcome participation and conversation where we listen with curiosity, openness, and respect.
We work toward transparency in community decision-making.
In order to live as an inclusive community that practices shared leadership, we must ensure that our decision-making processes are clear, open, and accessible to all.
We are called forward by our legacy.
We remember where we have come from, and we try to live faithfully to the Gospel as our founders have shown us. To do so, we must be open, attentive, and responsive to the changing needs of the world around us and to the dynamic character of our community.