Synod Ethics and Conflict of Interest Policy

Where can I find resources relating to a synod's ethics and conflict of interest policy?

Best practices for all organizations, including nonprofits and churches, recommend that a business ethics and conflict of interest policy be in place. A model Synod Operational Ethics Policy (available in PDF  and MS Word ) is provided. Synod Councils are encouraged to review this model and work to adapt the form or create their own policy.

Some Explanations

This policy contemplates coverage for all synod officers, synod council members, synod committee members, and synod staff. In some organizations, there are separate policies for staff. This policy is a combined policy designed to cover directors, committee members, and employees.

You will note that we have called it an operational ethics policy. The reason for this name is to be clear that our church has many ethical concerns that are certainly not covered in this short policy. This policy is to address the business side of your synod and its role as a nonprofit corporation.

Some ethics policies require that all those who are covered sign the policy at inception and then re-sign on a regular basis. There is no such a requirement in this draft but you may choose to require it. In any event, it is very important that all staff and directors be provided a copy when it is adopted, and a protocol should be in place to provide a copy to all new persons. It is also a good idea to consider having this as part of your website.

It is important to consult with your legal and financial advisors when adopting a business ethics policy.

Also available for your review is a short fiduciary duties primer for your Council (Board of Directors). It may also be helpful to share with committees or others in the synod.

Congregation Policy Also Available

A similar resource, a model Congregation Operational Ethics Policy, is available. Congregations are encouraged to consider adopting an ethics policy.

Synod Operational Ethics Policy  
Synod Operational Ethics Policy 
Congregation Operational Ethics Policy
Congregation Operational Ethics Policy