CODE OF ETHICAL STANDARDS FOR CHURCH MINISTERS
Diocese of San Diego
Preamble
This Code of Ethics is based on the fact that Church ministers must always uphold Christian values and conduct as promoted by the Gospel and taught by the Church. It does not presume to provide the answer to all the ethical questions facing Church ministers nor is it intended to supersede canon or civil law. Its purpose, rather, is to establish a set of general ethical standards for Church ministers. These standards will help to delineate boundaries for appropriate behavior in ministry.
The term “Church minister” is used to indicate all those who represent the Church by virtue of office or designated position. This Code will be used in their formation for ministry, and in holding them accountable to live within the ethical standards it sets.
Responsibility for adherence to this Code of Ethical Standards rests with the Church ministers themselves. Violations will be dealt with by the appropriate employing or appointing authority through action that may, if necessary, lead to exclusion from ministry.
The conduct of Church ministers, both public and private, has the potential to inspire and motivate people, or to scandalize them and weaken their faith. Church ministers must always keep this in mind.
General Principles
Five key principles underlie the ethical stance of this Code: ecclesial commitment, integrity, respect for others, personal well-being and ministerial competence.
Ecclesial Commitment
Church ministers should know Christ and seek to make him known. They should be familiar with the scriptures and be able to apply them to day-to-day situations. Church ministers must have a deep commitment to the Church as evidenced by adherence to Church teaching, loyalty to tradition, attentiveness to present demands, and readiness to take on future challenges. This commitment looks beyond the boundaries of parish faith communities to embrace the wider Church, diocesan and universal.
Integrity
Church ministers are expected to be persons of integrity who conduct themselves in a manner that is open, honest and above board. This requires that they be conscientious in their ministry and morally upright in their personal lives.
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