Policy

Confidentiality in mentoring relationships is discussed on page 17 of Answering the Call: Candidacy Guidebook (GBHEM). The stated definitions of confidentiality as candidates/clergy relate to one another in mentoring groups and as candidates/clergy relate to mentors is affirmed as the Indiana Conference’s official understanding of the confidentiality between mentors and candidates.

Process

• An agreement of confidentiality will be signed by both candidate and mentor as part of the group candidacy process covenant. A recommended agreement will be presented as part of the group candidacy orientation retreat.
• Any summary of the mentoring relationship written by the mentor is to be signed by both the candidate and the mentor prior to submission. Should there be any comments of disagreement, the candidate may add comments to the statement.

At the District Level

• Mentors may attend the certification interview with the candidate and be present as a silent observer but must leave with the candidate at the end of the interview and are not present for conversation or deliberations about the candidate in the absence of the candidate.
• If the mentor is on the dCOM, they will leave during deliberations but return for the vote and may vote.

At the Conference Level

• If the mentor is a member of the BOM, they will not be on the interview team of their candidate.
• If the mentor is a member of the BOM, they will not be present during deliberations or plenary discussion but will return for the vote and may vote.

From Answering the Call: Candidacy Guidebook (GBHEM), p.17

Confidentiality with Other Candidates

“The ethical principle of confidentiality here means that mutual trust among you, your mentor, and the members of your candidacy group is paramount. Confidentiality means having respect for each other and safeguarding what others say or disclose to group members. It includes listening carefully and empathetically. Confidentiality inspires a willingness to confide and a commitment to be worthy of shared confidences. Holding these confidences with great care honors God’s intention for us to be in relationships that lend support and encouragement.”

Confidentiality with Mentors

“Mentors also have responsibilities both to you as a candidate and to the wider Church. Mentors are guides, consultants, advisors, and supporters; they serve the Church by guiding candidates through the candidacy process and helping candidates discern how they can best serve. As you prepare to interview with the district Committee on Ordained Ministry (dCOM), your mentor will share with committee members a written report. Introductory and informational, the report introduces you to the committee, outlines issues that may need exploring, and highlights your understanding of the gifts and grace you bring to ministry.

Your mentor prepares this report and shares it with you before sending it, and you and your mentor will consent to the content of the report. It will not contain any confidential information without your permission. In fact, no conversation or personal information is shared in the report unless you give written permission. Mutual respect and confidentiality are the baseline for the report, and in Chapter 9 of Answering the Call you will find some suggestions to guide how this report is prepared.”