Conflict Resolution & Conciliation Center, Inc.
The Process
Our Approach to Peacemaking
“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Psalm 119:105 (KJV)
The Process
Our Approach to Peacemaking
“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Psalm 119:105 (KJV)
Addressing relationships as well as substantive issues
Conflict often has an underlying relationship component in addition to the presenting substantive issue(s). We find that dealing with the relationship issues first helps people to resolve any substantive issues. Unlike most mediation firms, our approach is to deal with both by
- Facilitating effective communication between parties to promote understanding
- Drawing out the underlying reasons for the conflict and relational impacts
- Dismantling barriers to constructive change
- Guiding and encouraging them toward reconciliation and resolution
Applying Biblical Principles of Conflict Resolution
Foundational to such principles include honesty, personal responsibility, respect, transparency, and vulnerability. These are described more fully on our Principles page. The process provides parties the opportunity to achieve resolution and reconciliation at the lowest possible level of formality and outside influences. We will consider accepting any case regardless of the religious convictions of the parties, provided they are willing to respect our application of the biblical principles underlying the process.
Resolving the Causes of Conflict
Mediation is a voluntary process. It is collaborative rather than adversarial. Parties are free to make their own decisions as they are guided through the process. Our approach allows participants to address damaged relationships and reach a mutually agreeable resolution of substantive issues with the assistance of an impartial mediator. An important Conflict to Peace distinctive is our use of a male/female team of mediators, in marital cases and in any other case involving both men and women. We encourage parties to identify and deal with root causes of conflict as an essential element in reaching a lasting resolution of their conflict as well as reducing the potential for future conflicts. Our process begins with the mediators meeting separately with each party to understand each party’s perspective of the circumstances, and continues through coaching (in potentially multiple coaching sessions) and homework to help them uncover root causes, identify their own contributions, and prepare to productively move toward reconciliation and resolution. We encourage each party to accept his or her responsibility for the problem and for its solution. After this preparation there is much better potential for productive engagement as we begin joint sessions. During this joint phase there is opportunity for additional coaching as we guide parties towards peace with each other and the outcome.
Our services include conflict coaching for individuals uncertain how to approach a dispute, mediation, arbitration or a combination thereof.
Grace filled communication is the key to resolution and peace. Our experienced conciliators provide that key.