Resolving Conflict Within the Church                

Not surprisingly, churches are not immune to conflict. This is of course true because churches are made up of people with different ideas and expectations. Pastors, clergy members, elders, and the general congregation often disagree on how to handle church matters.

Don't fear conflict, it’s a signal that discussion needs to occur. On a positive note, conflict provides opportunities for increased understanding and growth. If your church is experiencing conflict and needs assistance, mediation is a sensible option.

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"We must rethink our view of conflict. Conflict is neither a necessary evil nor a signal
of defeat. It is simply a reality. Wherever there are people there is conflict.
The real issue facing the church is not how to avoid conflict but how to manage it" - Donald E. Bossart
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Mediation is a voluntary process whereby a neutral third party facilitates a meeting between the parties. It provides a safe and confidential environment for discussing differing interests and exploring possible solutions. This is done with a spirit of cooperation, accommodation, and mutual respect. When parties come together to negotiate in good faith, they can usually find the best possible resolution for their dispute.

How do we begin?

Simply call Better Conflict Solutions and let us know you are interested in scheduling a mediation. If requested, we will contact the other party and explain the mediation process and ask if he/she is willing to participate. After both parties have agreed to participate we will schedule the mediation and give all parties written information about fees, guidelines, and tips for preparing for mediation.

In addition to her extensive training, Terry has received training in Managing Conflict and
Change in the Church from Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution at Pepperdine University

Reading Resources:

Is Conflict Stealing Your Peace and Joy?
Terry Sutter, Published in the Greater Phoenix Christian Chronicle November 2009

What to do When Marital Bliss Turns to Gloom
Terry Sutter, Published in the Greater Phoenix Christian Chronicle January 2010

When Christians Clash: How to Prevent and Resolve the Pain of Conflict
Horace L. Fenton Jr.
Inter Varsity Press, Downer's Grove, Illinois, 1987

Growing Through Conflict
Edited by Jerry and Becky Gross
Quality Publications, Abilene, Texas, 79604

Tell it to the Church: A Biblical Approach to Resolving Conflict Out of Court
Lynn R. Buzzard and Laurence Eck
Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, Illinois, 1985

Resolving Church Conflicts: A Case Study Approach for Local Congregations
G. Douglas Lewis
Harper & Row, Publishers, San Francisco, 1981