What is Christian Mediation?
Christian mediation operates within a biblical worldview for human interaction. Therefore our actions, attitudes and interactions are judged by a higher moral standard -we are ultimately accountable to God. This approach to mediation is bound by the biblical principles of honesty, holiness and humility. Christian mediation creates an environment for the spiritual disciplines of prayer and scripture to influence the process and the people in mediation. It has the potential for further development of emotionally, relationally and spiritually mature followers of Christ. We recognize that God is at work in our conflicts and He invites us to live at peace with one another (Hebrews 12:14). CMC acknowledges that God’s Spirit enables us to do that hard work of peacemaking.
Christian mediation understands that Christ laid the foundation for our identity as people reconciled to God and to be at peace with Him (Colossians 1:19). Our part in reconciliation with God is to apologize and receive forgiveness. In relation to others, a similar model is useful in most situations. There is often an opportunity for acknowledgment, apology and forgiveness to flow between the people involved in a dispute. As a general principal, believers are compelled by their identity in the body of Christ to do their part to be at peace with other believers in the body (John 15:12, Matthew 5:23-26, 1 Corinthians 6:1-8, John 17:20).
The elements of prayer, scripture and reliance on God play a role in conflict resolution from a Christian point of view. As well, experiencing God’s forgiveness and being aware of one’s identity in Christ add richness to the process.
Christian Mediation Canada is not restricted to working with only those who profess faith in Christ. We are aware that anyone can benefit from a principle centered mediation process that is collaborative and interest based. We welcome those who want to use CMC because it has a high moral standard and an interest in caring for the whole person.
Benefits of Mediation
Sometimes people believe that mediation is just another legal process or is only available within a legal process. This is not the case. Mediation can be effective when two or more people are unable to navigate or negotiate their way through their differences or issues to a mutually satisfying solution. A trained mediator can provide a process for bringing objective clarity to the issues and create a safe place that allows for effective communication to take place in the conversation. This allows everyone to be heard and hear each other.
Mediation has other great benefits:
- All parties in a mediation process are able to voice their concerns and needs in a secure environment (you’ll be in a confidential and private environment).
- Each person benefits from working with a skilled impartial third party (they won’t take sides).
- There is a greater opportunity to retain an amiable and working relationship with the other people (because the process is respectful and productive).
- Mediation allows you to reach mutually agreeable solutions (the parties have control over what happens and any solutions).
- Mediation can be less expensive and take less time than using the court system (you’ll save money and time).
- Mediation encourages people to be future focused (you don’t have to stay trapped in the past).
- Mediation results in agreements that are based on fairness and longevity (it works).
- You are often equipped to resolve future conflict through participation in the process (you’ll learn things that really help).
Responsibility of the Mediator
Mediation involves a skilled third person (mediator) who facilitates the communication process without making judgments or offering preconceived solutions to the problem. A mediator is a go-between-person that assists all parties in determining their own solution to the dispute by engaging them in a process that clarifies the issues, explores the underlining interests and co-creates mutually satisfying agreements.
Mediators listed with CMC apply for membership and their application is reviewed before listing them as skilled mediators.
- CMC mediators are independent practitioners that agree with the CMC code of conduct and the centrality of a Christian worldview.
- CMC mediators carry their own liability insurance and have credentials or certification from other organizations.
- CMC does not license or certify the mediators listed on this website.
Responsibility of the Client
- Determine if everyone is willing to engage in the mediation process.
- Decide who you want to mediate by reviewing and selecting a mediator from the Mediators page that is agreeable to all parties.
- Directly contact the CMC mediator from the list on the Mediators page.
- The CMC mediator will inform you about their approach, process, timing and cost for mediation. These factors vary depending on the kind of mediation required.
- We welcome your feedback on the mediators you use for referrals and/or evaluation of their services.
NOTE: CMC does not set fees, nor does it collect a portion of fees paid to mediators for their services. A common range for mediation fees is $125-$350 per hour. These fees can be shared by the parties or divided in whatever manner the parties agree.