UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CHURCH OF LOUDOUN
Embracing Diversity, Nurturing Spirituality, and Promoting Justice in the World
Policy Regarding Disruptive Behavior
One of the most important values held by the congregation of UUCL is the inclusion of a wide variety of
individuals, and to respect the diverse beliefs of all members, friends and visitors. We affirm the belief
that our congregation must maintain a safe and secure atmosphere where such diversity can exist.
When any person's physical and/or emotional well-being or freedom to safely express his or her beliefs
or opinions is threatened, the source of this threat must be addressed firmly and promptly, even if this
ultimately requires the expulsion of the offending person or persons.
There have been instances of disruptive behavior during and immediately following church services
which has led members to express concerns about one or more of the following;
1. False allegations regarding the safety of children,
2. The disruption of church activities,
3. The creation of an uncomfortable atmosphere for potential and existing members.
The Unitarian Universalist Church of Loudoun shall deal with these specific instances as well as
unspecified disruptive behavior in the following manner:
1. If an immediate response is required, the Minister or a Board Member of UUCL may ask the
person or persons to leave. If further assistance is required, the Police Department may be
called.
2. Situations not requiring immediate response will be referred to the Board of Governors who will
respond in terms of their own judgment.
3. To aid in evaluating the problem, the following points will be considered:
a. The Board will respond to problems as they arise. There will be no attempt to define
acceptable behavior in advance
b. Persons identified as disruptive will be dealt with as individuals.
c. Is the individual considered to be dangerous to persons or property?
d. Is the individual considered to be offensive to existing or prospective members?
e. Has the individual's behavior caused disruption to RE classes, church services or other
church activities?
4. The Board of Governors will decide on the necessary response on a case-by-case basis, with
the following three levels of response recommended:
a. Level One-The Minister or Board Member of UUCL shall meet with the offending individual
to communicate the concern.
b. Level Two-If the disruptive behavior continues, a formal letter will be sent to the individual,
stating the nature of the concern, and that if the behavior is not changed, expulsion will
follow.
c. Level Three-If no behavioral change occurs, the individual will be permanently excluded
from the church premises and all church activities. The Board will vote on the expulsion,
and the decision will be sent in writing, explaining the reasons and individual's rights and
possible recourse.
The Unitarian Universalist Church of Loudoun strives to be an inclusive community, affirming our
differences in beliefs, opinions and life experiences. However, concern for the safety and well-being of
the congregation as a whole must be given priority over the privileges and inclusion of the individual.
To the degree the disruptive behavior compromises the health of the congregation, our actions as
people of faith must reflect this emphasis on security.
Adopted by the Governing Board of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Loudoun at a regularly called meeting on
March 3, 2005, a quorum being present.
20460 Gleedsville Rd, Leesburg, VA 20175-8861
Phone: 703 737 7644