Ministry Policy

Effective Date: December 20th, 2024

Entity: The Carpocratian Church of Commonality and Equality, Inc. (“Church”)

Courtesy copy for transparency. The official signed version is maintained in the Church’s corporate records by the Clerk.

1. Purpose and Scope

This Policy governs the ecclesiastical recognition, expectations, and discipline of ministers of the Church. It is adopted under Article 8 of the Bylaws and may be amended by the Board. This Policy does not create contractual or employment rights.

2. Definitions

Minister means an individual formally recognized by Board action to carry out spiritual functions consistent with the Church’s doctrine of universal commonality and equality. Candidate means an individual under consideration for recognition.

3. Eligibility

• Alignment with Doctrine. Candidates must affirm and practice the Church’s teachings and mission.
• Age. Candidates must be at least 18 years old.
• Character. Integrity, discretion, and fitness for pastoral care; references and (where applicable) background checks.
• Gender. Welcomes candidates under the transgender umbrella, consistent with theology (Tachyon 10:18).

4. Recognition Process

Candidates submit a signed statement of interest to the Clerk at the following e-mail address: clerk@carpocratian.org. Interviews may be conducted. Recognition is by Board vote and recorded in the minutes; recognition is ecclesiastical and discretionary. The Clerk maintains a confidential roster.

5. Expectations and Conduct

• Care Standards. Prudence, confidentiality, safeguarding, conflicts avoidance.
• Boundaries. No legal/medical/mental-health services unless separately licensed; make referrals where appropriate.
• Use of Name and Marks. Represent the Church only while recognized; no commercial use of name/logo without permission.
• Digital Conduct. Follow site terms and applicable policies.

6. Authority and Limitations

Ministers may lead services, teaching, rites, and other spiritual functions as authorized. They may not bind the Church to contracts unless expressly authorized by Board resolution.

7. Compensation and Expenses

Recognition does not entitle a minister to compensation. Stipends/reimbursements may be approved by the Board. Recognition is not employment; any paid role requires a separate appointment.

8. Safeguarding and Reporting

Ministers shall comply with applicable safeguarding and mandatory-reporting laws where required. Additional safeguards may be imposed for programs involving minors or vulnerable persons.

9. Concerns, Discipline, and Removal

The President may suspend recognition pending Board review. The Board may issue guidance, impose conditions, suspend, or revoke recognition at any time, with or without cause, by majority vote. Decisions are ecclesiastical and final to the fullest extent permitted by law.

10. Data and Privacy

The Church maintains minimal records necessary to administer this Policy and will handle personal information consistent with the Privacy Policy.

11. Amendments

The Board may amend this Policy at any time by majority vote. The Clerk keeps the current version with the corporate records and may publish a courtesy copy on the website.