Equity
Emmaus Church’s Accountability Statement:
At Emmaus, we believe that all of creation and every single person is worth fighting for.
The hope we have in Jesus is not to escape this world and leave it behind but to be a part of setting it right here and now. We do this by leveraging our lives for good and reflecting our belief that the gospel is good news for every person, our life is better lived as a gift, and justice is central to God’s call.
We honor the responsibility that comes with cultivating and nurturing a beloved community where everyone feels safe, seen, and respected. We work to create physical, virtual, and pop-up spaces that are loving and authentic. We acknowledge that this only happens when we listen to every voice, not just the dominant voice. We stand for equity, inclusion, and anti-racism.
As such, we commit to the following values
Everyone is loved.
We model the love of Jesus for all people, leaning toward humility, curiosity, and empathy.
Everyone belongs.
By creating a culture of belonging, we celebrate everyone’s individual uniqueness.
Everyone has a voice.
Everyone has a seat and a voice at our table. We listen and learn from each other and our diverse perspectives, then we act upon that wisdom.
How we implement our values
We help break down barriers that lead to the inequities that exist in our systems, communities, and society by creating opportunities with and for people of all backgrounds and experiences, especially people of color, LGBTQ people, people with disabilities, and in general those with marginalized experiences.
We provide training, learning opportunities, strategic partnerships, resources, and initiatives, in the hope that when someone joins the Emmaus community, they will have the opportunity to understand justice work as an integral part of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
We commit to cultivating and supporting efforts that center equity, belonging, and justice. Whether it be the language we use, the resources we select, or the frequency in which we talk about it, we know that intentionality and consistent action communicates importance.
Church Accountability and Response Guidelines
What do we mean by harm?
Harm includes any words, actions, or neglect by a leader, board member, or staff member that cause spiritual, emotional, relational, or physical injury—intentional or not—and that extend beyond normal disagreements or differing opinions that naturally arise in group settings.
Purpose
Our accountability process is intended to provide a clear path for addressing conflict and harm in our church, guided by Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 18, to ensure individuals are heard, supported, and given an advocate, while fostering accountability, reconciliation, and healing in the spirit of Christ’s love.
How can I report a concern?
In-Person Conversation
Schedule a confidential meeting with one of these leaders.
Secure Online Form
Choose who follows up to your report — Lead Pastor, Care Pastor, Board Member, or Board Chairperson.
Anonymous Reports
Accepted, though they may limit our ability to respond fully.
What happens after I report something?
The leader receiving your concern will review it to determine the best next steps.
It may move into an informal pastoral response (a listening ear, mediation, or support) or a formal accountability process (investigation, reconciliation plan, or disciplinary action).
We handle concerns promptly, fairly, and confidentially, prioritizing care and restoration, and appropriate documentation when needed.
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All staff and certain other church leaders are mandatory reporters and must immediately report any suspicion of abuse, neglect, or exploitation to the appropriate local authorities. We will always follow and comply with applicable laws and reporting requirements.
Equity Committee Members:
Jack Apple
Lindsey Day
Shelley Dempsey- chair
Moses Andrews III
Yvonne Young
Dylan Gunnels
Barrett Norwood