Glossary
This section defines terms used in this report, in the context of their current usage in our Unitarian Universalist denomination.
Abuse: Actions causing physical, emotional or psychological damage to another person, usually in the context of a power imbalance between the Victim and the abuser. See "Sexual Abuse."
Advocate: A person appointed with the authority of the UUA, and accepted by a Victim/Survivor, whose role is to listen, to inform such person of the procedures established by the UUA, and other options, for confronting Clergy Sexual Misconduct, and to accompany the Victim/Survivor through these procedures. An Advocate does not function as a lawyer or therapist, but seeks to provide safe spaces for the Victim/Survivor, to facilitate truth-telling, and to restore community.
After-Pastor: A minister who, during the period while significant healing remains to be accomplished, serves a Congregation which has experienced Clergy Sexual Misconduct by a previous Minister.
Apology: An expression, to a person wronged, of genuine sorrow and regret for behavior acknowledged to be a breach of applicable ethical standards and a violation of trust. Apology can be an essential long-term precondition for Forgiveness.
For more information contact safecongregations@uua.org.
Last updated on Friday, April 18, 2008.
