Conflict transformation is a holistic process that seeks to resolve conflicts while fostering long-term peace, reconciliation, and understanding. Inspired by the vision of being A more Christ-like Church - contemplative, compassionate, and courageous for the sake of God’s world - it offers principals that are universal, promoting justice, dignity and respect for everyone, regardless of faith or belief.
This policy forms part of our commitment to fostering healthy relationships in ministry and employment, known as Working Positively Together.
Jump to… Who can we help? | How can we help? | Training | Definitions and Resolution Options
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” - Matthew 5:9
"If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." - Romans 12:18
"Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." Ephesians 4:3
In this section…
Who can we help?
Sometimes relationships in the parish or the workplace become strained. There may be tension between an incumbent and a curate, between long-serving and new clergy or leadership team members, or between employees and line managers. Workplace dynamics can mirror those in a parish setting, where differing expectations, communication challenges, or leadership styles create friction. The diocese can recommend and signpost you to a range of organisations that provide professionals trained in navigating conflict effectively. These experts can offer mediation/facilitated conversations to help resolve disputes between colleagues, clergy and leaders, fostering healthier relationships and a more positive and productive environment.
How can we help?
We offer support and guidance to individuals and groups to help equip people to transform how they resolve their conflicts. If you are in a situation of conflict in the first instance, please talk to your:
- Area Dean or Associate Archdeacon / Archdeacon (all clergy and LLMs [Readers])
- The line manager (employees of Oxford Diocesan Board of Finance) can alternatively speak to your staff representative.
Training
Training sessions are offered in conjunction with the Continuing Ministerial Development (CMD) team for all its licensed clergy and LLMs (Readers) within our diocese.
This may be of help to:
- Leaders of diocesan training courses, area deans, incumbents and churchwardens
- Christian leaders faced with conflict
- Church members concerned about conflict in the local church.
Guidance and advice:
We offer a listening ear and advice on:
- Some possible tools and techniques;
- Other mediation resources;
- Signpost you to recommended organisations who offer mediation/facilitated conversations;
- Sources of training on conflict prevention and conflict resolution; and
- Other ways to help you resolve conflict.
Our mission
- To equip people to tackle and transform conflict
- To help you to resolve conflict and transform relationships
- To accompany you in conflict on the journey towards resolution
- We believe bringing peace is intrinsic to the gospel of Jesus Christ
Why it's important?
- Fostering Sustainable Peace: Conflict transformation embodies Christ’s call to be peacemakers, creating lasting harmony and understanding, benefiting individuals and communities alike.
- Encouraging Collaboration: It supports working together across differences, building mutual respect and understanding, reflecting the unity we are called to as the Body of Christ.
- Rebuilding Relationships: By addressing past harm and misunderstandings, it brings healing and reconciliation, echoing the ministry of Christ in restoring brokenness.
How is the help paid for?
Some costs will be incurred, which depending on the circumstances, may be borne by the individuals, the parish or the diocese.
Definitions and Resolution Options
Conflict is a struggle or disagreement between individuals or groups arising from differing needs, values, interests, or perceptions. It can occur at personal, organisational, or societal levels and may be expressed through tension, disputes, or opposition. While often seen as negative, conflict can also drive growth and change when managed constructively.
Conflict transformation goes beyond simply managing or resolving disputes—it addresses the systemic, relational, and underlying causes of conflict, turning it into an opportunity for growth. By understanding tensions at their root, this approach fosters long-term peace, stronger relationships, and constructive change. Rather than just mitigating disputes, it seeks to reshape the structures and dynamics that led to the conflict, creating a foundation for lasting transformation.
Conflict resolution options refer to the different methods or strategies available for addressing and resolving disputes in a constructive manner. These options vary in formality, involvement of third parties, and the desired outcome.
Common conflict resolution available options are:
- Negotiation – direct discussion between parties to reach a mutually acceptable solution – referred to in our diocese as informal direct contact.
- Facilitated Conversations – structured, informal discussions guided by a neutral, trained facilitator to help individuals or groups improve communication, understanding and resolve issues – referred to in our diocese as facilitated discussions.
- Mediation – a neutral third party, the mediator, helps the conflicting parties communicate and negotiate towards a resolution. The mediator doesn't offer solutions or take sides but works to guide the conversation, ensuring that all parties are heard and helping them explore options for resolving the dispute. Often used in more contentious situations.
- Conciliation - a neutral third party facilitates communication to ease tensions and help parties reach a mutually agreeable solution, without necessarily focusing on deep emotional healing or restoring the original relationship.
- Reconciliation – the process of restoring relationships and achieving mutual understanding after a conflict. It often involves addressing emotional wounds, rebuilding trust, and bringing about long-term harmony. Typically focusing on healing and re-establishing positive relationships amongst the parties involved.
- Conflict Coaching - one-on-one support to help an individual navigate and manage conflict effectively.
What are the differences?
Mediation vs facilitated conversations: Mediation is more formal, with the mediator actively guiding parties toward a resolution, while facilitated conversations are often less formal and focus more on fostering communication and understanding.
Reconciliation vs conciliation: Reconciliation is more about healing and restoring relationships, while conciliation is about facilitating resolution and reducing conflict.