Terms of Service

1. Church Membership

Membership Responsibilities:

• Respect and follow the doctrines and traditions of the Eritrean Orthodox Tewahdo Church
• Participate actively in the spiritual life and community of the church
• Conduct yourself in accordance with Orthodox Christian values and teachings
• Support the church's mission, activities, and community as you are able
• Maintain accurate contact information with the church office

Membership Privileges:

• Participation in all church services and sacraments
• Access to pastoral care and spiritual guidance
• Participation in church programs and activities
• Voting rights in church matters (where applicable)
• Community support and fellowship

2. Orthodox Doctrines and Traditions

As a member, you agree to:

• Respect the authority of the Orthodox Church hierarchy
• Follow Orthodox liturgical practices and calendar
• Observe Orthodox fasting periods and holy days
• Participate in Orthodox sacraments according to church teaching
• Support Orthodox theological positions and moral teachings

3. Community Conduct

All members are expected to:

• Treat fellow members with respect, kindness, and Christian love
• Contribute positively to church fellowship and community
• Resolve conflicts through Christian dialogue and church mediation
• Maintain confidentiality of personal matters shared within the community
• Support church leadership and decisions made through proper channels

4. Financial Responsibilities

While membership is not contingent on financial contributions, members are encouraged to:

• Support the church through tithes and offerings as they are able
• Contribute to special collections and fundraising efforts
• Participate in church building and maintenance projects
• Support charitable works and community outreach programs

5. Church Services and Programs

The church provides:

• Regular Divine Liturgy and worship services
• Religious education and Sunday school programs
• Pastoral care and counseling
• Sacramental services (baptism, marriage, funeral, etc.)
• Community events and cultural programs

Participation in programs may require additional registration or consent forms.

6. Disciplinary Measures

The church reserves the right to take appropriate action, including suspension or termination of membership, for:

• Conduct contrary to Orthodox Christian teachings
• Disruption of church services or community harmony
• Violation of church policies or community standards
• Persistent failure to fulfill membership responsibilities

All disciplinary actions will follow established church procedures and provide opportunity for dialogue and reconciliation.

7. Privacy and Communications

By accepting membership, you consent to:

• Receiving church communications, newsletters, and announcements
• Inclusion in church directories and member lists (with privacy options)
• Photography/videography during church events (with opt-out options)
• Data processing in accordance with our Privacy Policy

8. Limitation of Liability

The church provides services and programs in good faith but:

• Cannot guarantee specific spiritual or personal outcomes
• Is not liable for personal property loss during church activities
• Requires participants to follow safety guidelines and instructions
• Recommends appropriate insurance coverage for personal belongings

9. Changes to Terms

These terms may be updated to reflect:

• Changes in church policies or procedures
• Legal or regulatory requirements
• Community needs and circumstances

Members will be notified of significant changes through regular communication channels.

10. Governing Law

These terms are governed by the laws of Western Australia and the canonical laws of the Eritrean Orthodox Tewahdo Church.