The Christian Calling: Repentance, Forgiveness, and Reconciliation
This chapter is only about the discipline of members. It focuses on a process of repentance, forgiveness (not stated but implied), and reconciliation.
Top Priority: Read and learn about Matthew 18:15-17.
Warning: This chapter does not apply to employees. Such matters belong in the employee policies (see C12.08.).
Volunteers generally count as employees from a legal perspective, and volunteer misconduct should also be handled in the employee policies (especially as some volunteers may not be members).
However, this chapter should probably influence any policies related to employment.
It is highly unlikely that any congregation would add anything to these chapters on any level (constitutional provisions, bylaws, or continuing resolutions), and any additions would be highly scrutinized. It is best to leave this chapter alone.
Note: Some pastors do not like the dual role of pastoral care and disciplinarian. This same dual role exists for bishops. Each pastor must decide how they will handle these potentially opposing activities. Who will stand as advocate for the injured party? Who will stand as advocate for the accused?
For Success: Build a culture of forgiveness in the congregation long before this chapter is ever needed. Recommended reading is the "Resources for Reconciliation" series from Duke Divinity School, particularly "Forgiving As We've Been Forgiven".