What is a Fitness Review?

One of four procedures used by Committees on the Ministry

Periodic Support Consultation Situational Support Consultation Information Review Fitness Review

When?

Information arises which-

If found to be true,

Would call into question the person’s continued fitness for ministry on behalf of the United Church of Christ

Many kinds of misconduct

Financial Emotional abuse Blurred relationship Control In appropriate intimacy Sexualized behavior + Ministerial

relationship

Committee on the Ministry:

Committee on the Ministry: Decides if concern raises a question of Fitness Calls and oversees response team Adjudicates (determines fitness) Oversees any program of growth or follow-up Ongoing relationships with calling body and

minister

Response Team: Two distinct roles

Gathering Information Interviews as assigned, in pairs Ideally- one team per participant interview Reports to Committee on Ministry

Supporting the Participants One Support person per participant Voluntary for participant Confidentiality maintained

Avoid multiple roles

Conference Staff role Coordination Communication Process Consultation

Parish Life and Leadership role Process Consultation (by request)

Phased Process

Preliminary Phase

Information Gathering

Deliberation/Decision

Follow-up (notifications, records)