Report Abuse/Grievances

Our hope is that ECV is a place of safety where people can come as themselves to grow, be healed, be made whole, and be sent out in their callings. However, we acknowledge that we are fallible beings who can make mistakes—sometimes intentional and sometimes not. To help address matters of grievance and complaint, ECV has established the Grievance Committee, which is made up of the Executive Pastor and other select members of the Church Council.

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Matthew 18:15-17 talks about how to deal with sin in the church. It says, "If a fellow believer hurts you, go and tell him—work it out between the two of you. If he listens, you’ve made a friend. If he won’t listen, take one or two others along so that the presence of witnesses will keep things honest, and try again. If he still won’t listen, tell the church. If he won’t listen to the church, you’ll have to start over from scratch, confront him with the need for repentance, and offer again God’s forgiving love." (The Message)

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Our hope is that people would be willing to address their conflict with one another directly, first. In cases where additional support is needed from the church, you can reach out to grievance@elmcityvineyard.org, an email account monitored by the Grievance Committee. While we cannot promise complete confidentiality, we will exercise discretion and wisdom in information sharing and non-retaliation upon reporting. For any complaints involving individuals under the age of 18, our Family Pastor will also be involved.

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In cases where mediation is necessary, the mediator will talk to each party separately and then with both parties together. In these discussions, the Grievance Committee commits to be honoring and create a safe space where the complainant feels neither embarrassed or ashamed.

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In cases where there have been eggregious acts performed, including but not limited to sexual harassment, abuse, or misconduct, and in cases where individuals do not feel comfortable contacting the Grievance Committee, Vineyard USA has created a partnership with Guidepost Solutions, a third-party whistleblower organization who can receive and investigate such complaints. To report a complaint or grievance to Guidepost Solutions, you can email VineyardUSA@guidepostsolutions.com. Learn more at https://vineyardusa.org/report/.