Denver Seminary

2022-2023 Student Handbook 15 Redemptive Relationships We will maintain a good reputation with all people, serving the marginalized and upholding relationships characterized by love, grace, and truth. We will use wise judgement as outlined in the scriptures and pursue reconciliation by taking initiative to resolve differences whenever possible and by responding with civility to others when they do the same. In dialogue, we will listen to each other and respond with respect and a genuine desire to understand, even when consensus cannot be reached. We will endeavor to demonstrate the fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control per Galatians 5:22-23) in all of our interactions with others. Sexual and Gender Integrity Denver Seminary's Statement on Human Sexuality forms a framework for instruction on matters related to human sexuality. It also serves as a framework for employment and enrollment decisions as they may relate to sexuality. Sexual integrity presupposes a commitment to God's original design and intent for human sexuality as well as an admission that, because of The Fall, we are all sexually and relationally broken. It requires that we pursue fidelity to God's overarching redemptive plan in every area of life, including sexuality. Therefore, we commit to abstaining from all forms of sexual engagement that distort God's original intent for humanity to experience sexual relations solely in the context of heterosexual marriage. At the same time, we will demonstrate compassion for one another as we struggle with our respective brokenness. We commit ourselves to practicing celibacy in any relationship outside of a consensual heterosexual union and to exercising faithfulness within that union. We commit to expressions of congruence between experienced gender and biological sex. We will support one another in all matters related to sexual integrity, recognizing the spiritual benefit of self-control and self-denial. If we struggle or fail in these pursuits, we will seek help and accountability. Controlled Substances We will respect Denver Seminary as a smoke-free, drug-free, and tobacco-free campus, and we will refrain from the consumption of alcohol in any public place on campus. Alcohol will not be provided by Denver Seminary at any school sponsored student event. In accordance with Federal standards, we will not possess, distribute, or use illicit substances, and we will only use prescription medication under the purview of a medical doctor. If a report of substance abuse is submitted, the Seminary will undergo a process to review the reported behavior, work with the student in question, and determine an appropriate outcome per the steps outlined in the Student Grievance Procedures section of this Handbook. Self-control In dependence upon God, we will live sober and self-disciplined lives by consuming food and drink in moderation. We will pursue holy and righteous expressions of beauty, creativity, and art while avoiding that which is pornographic, violent, and demeaning to ourselves and others. We will be conscientious in our work-life balance, material pursuits, and use of interpersonal power. In all instances, we will humbly avail ourselves to relational accountability and receive critical feedback about our lives. We will seek the appropriate help and submit ourselves to remediation and discipline when necessary. If we have an addictive struggle, however easily hidden or rationalized, we will seek help and accountability to prevent it from affecting ourselves, our work, others, and the community at large in harmful ways. The

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