Whereas the Book of Order states that the Church of Jesus Christ is called to be a sign in and for the world of the new reality which God has made available to people in Jesus Christ and that new reality in Jesus Christ is demonstrated in sin being forgiven, reconciliation being accomplished and the dividing walls of hostility being torn down, G-3.0200

And Whereas the Church is called to be Christ's faithful evangelist demonstrating by the love of its members for one another and by the quality of its common life the new reality in Christ, G-3.0300

And Whereas the scriptures equate quarrels, dissensions and factions with the sins of idolatry, drunkenness and fornication, calling all of these the works of the flesh which is opposed to God's Spirit and calls us instead to the fruits of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control ...

And recognizing that within our common ministry there is diverse interpretation of our call to seek the peace, purity and unity of the church and that these differences of interpretation have led to strife within the body,

Be it resolved that the Presbytery of West Jersey is establishing Guidelines for Engagement which will, God willing, encourage fair and open discussion of diverse opinions while affirming our common ministry.

1. Caucus groups, whether formal or informal when planning to present a minority opinion or to challenge an anticipated report of a Presbytery council, committee or task force should notify the presenters and moderator of their intentions so as to facilitate smooth parliamentary procedure and thoughtful debate.

2. Letters mailed out prior to Presbytery meeting for the purpose of lobbying a particular position or suggesting new motions or actions for the consideration of the body should be mailed to all Presbyters.

3. Council will include in the Pre-presbytery packet a summary of highlights of the coming meeting, including mention of any issues or actions that may draw debate, along with references to packet enclosures with further information is appropriate.

4. The two reading principle will be applied to decisions or actions that are likely to cause controversy in order to give adequate time for discussion and thought.

A. Council may designate any topic a two reading issue.

B. Presbyters may elect at any time to evoke the two reading rule and postpone a decision to the following meeting by a vote of a simple majority.

C. At times a two reading rule may prove to be impractical for a given issue that was designated previously for this purpose. At such time the Presbytery may set aside the two reading order by a vote of 2/3's majority.

5. The Presbytery newsletter will make available one full page for letters to the Presbytery to allow for diverse expression of opinion.

A. All letters must be signed.

B. The editor of the newsletter will have the authority to decide which letters will be printed.

6. The Nominating Committee of the Presbytery will give full attention to Book of Order G 4.0403.