God calls us to make our churches safe places, protecting children and other vulnerable persons from abuse. As followers of Jesus, we understand that children, youth, and vulnerable adults are inherently valuable members of Christ’s community. Within the community of believers, there must be protection for each of us in our dependence on God and on each other.
Our congregation’s purpose for establishing this Policy and accompanying procedures is to demonstrate our absolute and unwavering commitment to the physical safety and spiritual growth of everyone in our church. We are committed to maintaining a safe environment in which children, youth, and vulnerable adults are protected from abuse. Our intent is to:
1. Protect children, youth, and vulnerable adults (hereafter referred to as vulnerable individuals) in all church programs.
2. Educate all staff and volunteers concerning pertinent issues.
3. Protect staff, volunteers, and the church itself, from potential allegations of abuse and neglect with regard to the treatment of children, youth, and vulnerable adults.
4. Establish appropriate ways of responding to alleged, reported, or suspected incidents of abuse.
5. Be in a compassionate ministry with all affected persons—the alleged victim, the alleged victim’s family, the accused, the accused’s family, and the church family.
Read our Safe Church Policy.