Covenant of Right Relations of the Calgary Unitarians

A Covenant of Right Relations articulates the promises, the agreements, we make to each other as we strive to fulfill our Purpose Statement:

“We come together in beloved community guided by our Unitarian Universalist Principles and Sources, to grow in wisdom, welcome and deepen relationships and act for a just and sustainable world.”

We recognize that individually, and as a community, we are responsible for our intentions, communications and actions. We work to develop and promote skills and practices that strengthen our relationships and guide our behaviours.

We, the Calgary Unitarians, therefore, agree to: 

Show each other respect 

• With open minds and hearts, we actively listen to each other.
• We show flexibility toward differing opinions and thought.
• We use honest, courteous, non-hurtful language.
• We speak with compassion and acceptance and treat each other kindly.
• We recognize that each voice is worthy of being heard and comes from unique life experience.
• We acknowledge and respect the responsibilities and commitments undertaken by members of our community. 

Communicate directly and honestly

• We speak in “I” language, taking time to examine our own assumptions, avoid judgement, generalization and unsolicited advice.
• We understand that sometimes our words and actions have unintended impact. We are willing to mutually engage in restoring right relations if this occurs.
• We address concerns directly, promptly and personally in a manner that promotes mutual respect. We speak to each other not about each other.
• We choose the right time and place to communicate our differences.
• We utilize existing systems for conflict resolution and educate ourselves on these processes. 

Participate with trust and commitment 

• We focus on the most respectful interpretation of others’ actions, assuming best intentions and trusting we are each doing our best.
• We choose to stay connected and engaged through difficult moments, intentionally negotiate compromise and collaboration.
• We try to make realistic commitments, accept or decline tasks and responsibilities positively, ask for help if needed and offer help when possible.
• We accept mutual responsibility for expressing and honoring personal boundaries.
• We admit our mistakes and failures.
• We practice forgiveness of ourselves and others and we try again. 

Express encouragement and appreciation

• We acknowledge that everyone has strengths and weaknesses, and so we intentionally look for opportunities to offer each other praise and thanks, forgiveness and support.
• We recognize the value of feedback, kindly offered with positive constructive alternatives.
• We acknowledge, respect and embrace our diversity knowing that differences and conflict do not preclude, in fact can foster, deeper connections through mutual care and inclusion.
• We make room for creativity, comfort, camaraderie and joy as we act for the common good of our beloved community.

If you have any questions, please contact us at RightRelations@calgaryunitarians.ca