What should a church do to protect against the risk of child sexual abuse?

An effective safety system for the church should include the following components.  Each of these components is valuable as part of a program, but cannont creat a safe environment standing alone.

  1. Sexual Abuse Awareness Training (for all staff members and volunteers).
  2. An effective screening process (for screening and hiring of personnel, including volunteers).
  3. An appropriate criminal background check.
  4. Tailored policies and procedures
  5. Effective monitoring and oversight of all ministry programs involving children or vulnerable adults.
The single most important step a church can take?  Up next….