our credo
The Gospel Music Project
Underlying Principles / Standards of Conduct
- Each member of the Gospel Music Project is a part of the greater whole; therefore our priority is our common welfare and the greater good of the organization.
- We come together from different walks of life and from different ways of expressing our faith and beliefs. We have in common a desire to celebrate that which is spiritual and serves the highest good.
- Our membership consists of those who wish to express that celebration through gospel and secular spiritual music, which we share with diverse audiences.
- In every action, we are guided by two principles:
- Do no harm;
- Treat others in ways that you are willing to be treated in the exact same situation.
- When questions or conflict arise, we deal openly and compassionately with the issues at hand, respecting all who take part. Individuals are to talk directly with one another about problems between them; only when that doesn’t work should other members be approached to mediate. No individual in the group may take action that might greatly affect the Gospel Music Project as a whole without conferring with the Board. On such occasions, our common welfare is paramount.
- Continued or repeated violations of the Standard of Conduct are subject to sanction. The form of sanction may range widely: from a letter of reprimand to withdrawal of membership. The Board of Trustees determines what form of sanction is appropriate following procedures outlined in the Membership section of the bylaws. In each instance the Board takes a careful, open-minded approach to decision-making. Its decisions are informed by our core values. At the same time the Board is charged to take action based on the good of the whole.
- The Gospel Music Project is a musical ministry that has one overarching purpose — to carry gospel music’s uplifting message of hope, courage, and joy to diverse audiences, so that, as one, we come to experience the living meaning of peace, equity, justice, and respect.
- We are supported by voluntary contributions of our members and patrons, as well as funds from grants, foundations, and fundraising efforts. Experience teaches that nothing can more undermine a sense of mission and purpose than disputes over money and authority. Therefore, on principle, we choose to refuse gifts from any source (individual or corporate) that carries or implies any obligation other than those that fit our mission.
- Members shall refrain from expressing any opinion on outside controversial issues — particularly those of politics or religion — in a way that implies The Gospel Music Project supports the particular viewpoint. While individual members of The Gospel Music Project may share similar philosophical, religious, spiritual, or political viewpoints, as an organization The Gospel Music Project neither supports nor opposes any particular viewpoint.
- Our relations with one another and with the general public are characterized by the principles we sing about. Every member is to carry him- or herself humbly, respectfully, warmly, and openly when representing the Gospel Music Project. Divisive behavior or actions will not be tolerated or condoned for any reason.
- Finally, we are to place principles before personalities; we are to actively practice genuine humility as best we can. Our group has no place for self-importance; it is built upon seeing the good in each and in all and doing whatever we can to help bring it out in ourselves and others. As we learn to see the best in ourselves and one another, may we learn to live our full potential, and so become better and stronger as a whole. What better way to embody the live-giving, hope-filled possibilities of the principles about which we sing!
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