Oklevueha NAC Standards and Discipline

Oklevueha Native American Church has very clearly outlined our standards for how we conduct ourselves, walk with respect for the medicine and the medicine people, and how to remain within compliance in order to claim all your First Amendment rights.

Sometimes there comes a time when the Council of Advisors are informed about members acting outside of our standards and stated codes of behaviors. When a report of such behavior comes to the Council, they make extensive investigation on both sides of the story, go deeply into prayer, and make a decision regarding the standing of the member in question. The Council takes matters like this very seriously, and no decision is ever made without full agreement of the Council.

ONAC is different than some churches in that we do not believe in “excommunication,” but in making efforts to reclaim and reunite with our members when they are out of compliance with our beliefs and our code of ethics. When the efforts or actions of members become destructive towards other people or to the rights and spiritual well-being of other members, we issue a “Letter of Distrust” outlining the ways that they are not in compliance with or honoring of our basic standards, the Code of Ethics and the Code of Conduct.

It also invites them to make changes and reparations to those they have offended or hurt which is similar to the Christian concept of repentance. If they choose to ignore this guidance and continue in negative behaviors, we will issue a “Letter of Probationary Status” which indicates that they are no longer under our protection and can not access ONAC resources or be vouched for as a member in good standing.

A member who has been distrusted will not having protection for the use, possession, or transport of sacraments and medicines, and denies them entrance to ONAC. This letter also invites them to return to integrity and fellowship.

It is our desire that all people be afforded their God-given rights and one of those is agency – the ability to choose our path. If a person chooses a path that takes them away from the truth and peace we offer, we respect that choice. If they choose a path that seeks to destroy or damage the rights of others within our organization or deprive them of safety in following their conscience, we reserve the right to compel them legally to cease that type of destructive behavior.