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10 Ethical Guidelines for Christian and Muslim Witness in Britain
The Christian Muslim Forum met and agreed a text which sets out how both religious communities can share their faith with mutual respect and understanding.
'Mutual respect' has been a well know phrase in missiological studies, especially in other parts of the world to Britain where Christians have sought to share the good news of Jesus Christ among peoples of other faiths. Now a set of Guidelines have been agreed and presented which helps foster the 'mutual respect' principle in Britain. The statement begins, 'As members of the Christian Muslim Forum we a re deeply committed to our own faiths (Christianity and Islam) and wish to bear witness to them.
Guidelines Agreed 24th June 2009
Under the aegis of the Christian Muslim Forum, at a meeting held on 24th June 2009, a set of Ethical Guidelines were agreed and offered to the wider church for implementation. The following is offered to help equip Christians and Muslims in sharing their faith with integrity and compassion for those they meet.
- We bear witness to, and proclaim our faith not only through words but though our attitudes, actions and lifestyles.
- We cannot convert people, only God can do that. In our language and methods we should recognise that people's choice of faith is primarily a matter between themselves and God.
- Sharing our faith should never be coercive; this is especially important when working with children, young people and vulnerable adults. Everyone should have the choice to accept or reject the message we proclaim and we will accept people's choices without resentment.
- Whilst we might care for people in need or who are facing personal crises, we should never manipulate these situations in order to gain a convert.
- An invitation to convert should never be linked with financial, material or other inducements. It should be a decision of the heart and mind alone.
- We will speak of our faith without demeaning or ridiculing the faith of others.
- We will speak clearly and honestly about our faith, even when that is uncomfortable or controversial.
- We will be honest about our motivations for activities and we will inform people when events will include the sharing of faith.
- Whilst recognising that either community will naturally rejoice with and support those who have chosen to join them, we will be sensitive to the loss that others may feel.
- Whilst we may feel hurt when someone we know and love chooses to leave our faith, we will respect their decision and will not force them to stay or harass them afterwards.
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