Scriptural references will provide our foundation and context for such a policy, emphasizing principles of love, respect, and inclusivity. Here are some scriptural references that can be used in the creation of such policies:

1. Love Your Neighbour as Yourself:

• Reference: Mark 12:31 (NIV) – “The second is this: ‘Love your neighbour as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these."
• Policy Principle: All members of the Church, regardless of cultural background, are to be treated with love and respect, as one would want for themselves.

2. Acceptance and Unity in Christ:

• Reference: Galatians 3:28 (NIV) – “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus."
• Policy Principle: Emphasise the unity of believers in Christ, transcending cultural, social, and ethnic differences.

3. Respect for Diversity:

• Reference: Revelation 7:9 (NIV) – “After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb."
• Policy Principle: Recognise and celebrate the diversity of cultures within the Church as a reflection of the Kingdom of God.

4. Hospitality and Welcoming Strangers:

• Reference: Hebrews 13:2 (NIV) – “Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it."
• Policy Principle: Encourage hospitality and inclusion towards newcomers and those from different cultural backgrounds, making them feel welcome and valued.

5. Avoiding Discrimination and Prejudice:

• Reference: James 2:1-4 (NIV) – “My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favouritism. Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in filthy old clothes also comes in. If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, 'Here’s a good seat for you,' but say to the poor man, 'You stand there' or 'Sit on the floor by my feet,' have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?"
• Policy Principle: Discourage favouritism or discrimination based on cultural or socioeconomic status within the Church.

6. Humility and Servanthood:

• Reference: Philippians 2:3-4 (NIV) – “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others."
• Policy Principle: Encourage humility and service towards one another, valuing the perspectives and needs of individuals from all cultural backgrounds.

7. Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation:

• Reference: Matthew 18:15-17 (NIV) – “If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over. But if they will not listen, take one or two others along so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’ If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the Church…"
• Policy Principle: Provide a framework for resolving conflicts and promoting reconciliation within the Church, addressing any cultural misunderstandings or tensions with grace and humility.

By incorporating these scriptural principles into every Church policy, we foster an environment where all cultures are respected, valued, and treated equally within the Church.