Covenant Fellowship
Q & A
Q: What is Covenant Fellowship?
A: Covenant Fellowship is a committed relationship between Common Ground and a person who expresses a desire to further the purpose of Common Ground.
Q: Is it the same as membership?
A: It is similar to membership but is actually a much deeper commitment.
Q: What is meant by deeper commitment?
A: Unlike becoming a member of an organization simply by making application, paying fees and/or stating intention; such as with political parties, churches, social organizations, etc.; Covenant Fellowship with Common Ground carries with it a deep commitment to regularly contribute time, talent, service and resources toward the purpose of the spiritual center.
Q: Are there any requirements?
A: Yes. Those wishing to enter into Covenant Fellowship partnership are asked to attend foundational classes, which explore the mission, vision and purpose of Common Ground and how it functions as a ministry.
Q: Are there required beliefs?
A: No. However, those entering into Covenant Fellowship must be willing to work for religious humility and acknowledge ecumenism that lets all spiritual traditions speak for themselves.
Q: What about tithing?
A: A Covenant Fellowship partner must have a giving consciousness. Tithing is basic training for the consciousness of giving. A person's giving consciousness is not monitored. That will be left to the consciousness of each individual.
Q: How does a person enter into Covenant Fellowship?
A: By completing an application and acknowledgement of requirements and then submitting it to Common Ground.
Q: Can this be done at any time?
A: Yes. Applications are available year-round.
Q: Then what happens?
A: Twice a year, January and July, individuals newly entering into Covenant Fellowship will be honored in a formal dedication ceremony.
Q: Can a person be part of Common Ground without entering into Covenant Fellowship?
A: ABSOLUTELY! Everyone is welcome and invited to participate in activities at Common Ground. The decision to enter into Covenant Fellowship is a very deep commitment. While everyone is invited to consider Covenant Fellowship, everyone is equally encouraged to prayerfully consider whether or not such a commitment serves their highest personal interest. Only those who are ready to do so are encouraged to make the choice to enter into this covenant.
Q: Can I be a member of another spiritual community and still enter into Covenant Fellowship at Common Ground?
A: Yes. Covenant Fellowship at Common Ground is open and inclusive. We honor all paths to God, all spiritual traditions and all religious institutions.
