At the Independent Faith Church, and within the philosophy of Barbequia, we do not impose rigid rules on personal conduct. Our guiding standard is the commitment to live by and apply the 5 Foundational Principles of the faith. Each individual is encouraged to explore and express their spiritual journey in a way that aligns with their unique path.
Understanding Sin in Barbequianism
In Barbequia, “sin” is not a moral judgment handed down by a deity or the church. Instead, we define it as any thought, action, or behavior that hinders personal growth or blocks progress toward fully embodying the Foundational Principles.
All actions carry natural consequences. There is no need for punishment; rather, individuals are encouraged to learn from experience and consciously align their lives with the values of Barbequia.
Ministerial Standards
Ministers are held to a higher standard, reflecting their role as spiritual leaders and representatives of the Independent Faith Church. They are expected to integrate the Foundational Principles into daily life, modeling personal growth and ethical application of the philosophy.
To maintain the integrity of the church and its leadership, ministers adhere to a Ministerial Agreement while serving. This agreement outlines conduct and expectations, and any violations are reviewed by the Council of Ministers, composed of 3–6 ordained ministers under the oversight of the Presiding Minister.
Severe violations—such as violence, criminal behavior, dishonesty, cruelty to humans or animals, or any actions contrary to the Foundational Principles—may result in termination of the Ministerial Agreement. This action is not excommunication, but a necessary step to protect the safety, reputation, and legal standing of the church.
Preparation and Awareness
All ministers are fully aware of these expectations during their training. They receive a comprehensive understanding of acceptable and unacceptable conduct and are assessed on their readiness to uphold these standards before ordination.