Lotus Templar Inc. Theravada Buddhist Church - Code of Ethical Conduct for Clergy
1. Preamble
The Lotus Templar Inc. Theravada Buddhist Church (LTITBC) believes in fostering an environment of respect, integrity, and compassion. This Code of Ethical Conduct outlines the standards of behavior expected of all clergy and provides procedures for addressing breaches.
2. Ethical Standards
2.1 Integrity: The Clergy should act with honesty and uphold the teachings of Buddhism in their personal and professional lives.
2.2 Confidentiality: All personal disclosures made within the pastoral relationship must remain confidential unless there is a risk to the individual or others.
2.3 Boundaries: The Clergy must maintain appropriate boundaries, avoiding any form of intimate relationships with congregants or students.
2.4 Respect: The Clergy must respect the rights, dignity, and worth of every individual, regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity, or socio-economic status.
2.5 Financial Responsibility: The Clergy must avoid financial conflicts of interest and ensure all financial matters are transparent and honest.
2.6 Substance Abuse: The use of illegal substances or misuse of legal substances is strictly prohibited.
3. Procedures for Addressing Breaches:
3.1 Reporting
a) All concerns or allegations about a clergy member's conduct must be reported to the Ethics Committee of LTIBC.
b) Anonymous reports are accepted but may limit the investigation's scope.
3.2 Preliminary Assessment:
a) The Ethics Committee will review the report to determine the next steps.
b) If a legal issue arises, the matter will be referred to the appropriate legal authorities.
3.3 Investigation:
a) An impartial investigator will be appointed to gather information about the allegation.
b) All parties involved will be interviewed.
3.4 Determination:
a) The Ethics Committee will review the investigation findings.
b) A decision will be made about whether a breach has occurred and what action, if any, should be taken.
3.5 Actions:
a) Possible actions include mediation, counseling, suspension, or removal from clergy duties.
b) Decisions can be appealed within 30 days.
3.6 Confidentiality: All investigations will be confidential, protecting the identity of the person making the report and the person accused, except as necessary during the investigation.
4. Review:
This Code of Ethical Conduct will be reviewed every three years to ensure its relevancy and effectiveness.