Conflict in relationships is inevitable. It arises in strong marriages, long-term business relationships, or in committed church communities. It may be as straightforward as neighbors arguing over the height of a tree, or as complicated as the dissolution of a business partnership. In many of these situations, conflict seems to take on a life of its own, resulting in feelings of frustration and loss of control for those involved. How people respond to conflict - filing a lawsuit or walking away, for example - is one of the few matters over which they do have control. Entrust ADR Resources, Inc. offers out-of-court solutions for resolving conflict, referred to as Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), which allow people to resolve conflict in a Biblically sound, cost-effective, and productive manner.

Entrust ADR Resources, Inc. is a not-for-profit organization that is committed to using and teaching a Biblical approach to conflict resolution and reconciliation. For those involved in a conflict, it provides an economical and Scripturally sound alternative to litigation. For others, it offers practical training on conflict avoidance and resolution. Entrust serves both Christians and those individuals or groups willing to use Biblical peacemaking principles.

Entrust operates on three levels, but has as its singular purpose unity through peace in the body of Christ:

First, because its mission is Scripturally sound: The Bible gives specific instruction on how Christians are to handle conflict. In Matthew 18:15-20 and 1 Corinthians 6:1-8, for example, the parties, if they are unable to resolve the dispute themselves, are directed to bring the matter before two or three other Christians. If the conflict is still not resolved, then they are to bring the matter before the church itself. Christians are strongly encouraged to avoid litigation against one another. Entrust allows the participants to take their matter before a neutral person who has the knowledge and training to focus the parties on resolution and reconciliation.

Second, because the founders of Entrust have the legal experience, the practical training, and the long-held desire to use alternative dispute resolution in a way that glorifies God.

Third, because litigation is emotionally, financially, and sometimes physically draining on those engaged in it. Using procedures such as mediation and arbitration allows the parties to conserve money, time, and lessen the emotional and physical impact of fully and finally resolving a dispute. The resulting agreements are binding and enforceable in accordance with the law.

Fourth, Entrust encourages the participants to not only resolve the conflict, but also to work towards reconciliation. Reconciliation fulfills our Biblical mandate, and also allows the participants to continue their personal or business relationship - a relationship that is virtually impossible to maintain when people go through litigation in the court system.