Conciliation: God's idea.

Unresolved or unaddressed conflict in a church can undermine the reputation of Christ and harm a church’s visible witness in a community. If your church is in conflict, reconciliation isn’t optional, it’s

“ According to research conducted by Leadership Journal 79 percent of pastors who used professional mediation consultants found them somewhat or very helpful.

But respondents wished they had called for help sooner. Those who didn’t find consultants helpful admitted they entered the formal mediation process too late."

LEADERSHIP JOURNAL
“ Who Ya Gonna Call?”

biblical. The help of a professional conciliator may be unnecessary, but a commitment to resolution—with or
without outside help—is critical. Conciliation = Mediation?
Biblically, the desired outcome of conciliation is that people come together and are restored. Unfortunately, that doesn’t

always happen. The intensity of some conflicts—issues pertaining to a lawsuit are a good example —means that relationships may remain broken. Forgiveness is the primary focus and desired outcome of conciliation, but occasionally it is not a reality. Mediation picks up where conciliation leaves off, providing resolution of substantive issues for the parties in conflict.
Conciliation = Compromise?
Yes, no and sometimes. The basis of conciliation is putting relationships first. When people in conflict put relationships first, other issues tend to take care of themselves. Occasionally, however, even two well-intentioned parties can only agree to disagree. At that point, we continue to pursue a win-win solution that requires cooperation from both sides. We recognize, however, that mediation often results in resolution rather than reconciliation.
Conciliation = Consultant?
The dynamics of most congregational conflicts involve a breakdown in trust. That loss of trust can result in an unwillingness to cooperate with those who may be seen as “on the other side” of an issue or loyal to a person or group. Consultants, who have no personal or emotional ties to church members or a church community, can be objective facilitators who act impartially.