Preventing Sexual Misconduct in Congregations
All forms of sexual misbehavior by clergy and lay leaders with church members are unacceptable within the life of the church. The church should be a safe place where people can worship, learn, work, love and receive care in a manner that is free from sexual misconduct.
A written policy statement is an important first step toward preventing sexual misconduct or harassment. Make sure all persons concerned are aware of the policy and understand the content. When misconduct occurs, the entire congregation suffers emotionally, spiritually and financially.
- Have a written policy regarding sexual misconduct and sexual harassment.
- Instruct all adults who work with children and youth in what is, and is not, appropriate behavior.
Make it clear to the staff, volunteers and members that following the guidelines you have established are to protect the children and youth of your congregation.
Resources for Congregations:
Preventing the abuse
- Create a sexual misconduct prevention policy
- Sample sexual misconduct prevention policy
- What parishioners can do to understand and prevent clergy sexual abuse
After abuse is suspected
- Report the abuse: ELCA Safe Place prepared by the Domestic Mission unit of the ELCA
- Reporting child abuse: clergy reporting laws
- Responding to allegations of clergy misconduct
- Congregations Healing After Clergy Sexual Abuse
What if there is a known abuser in our congregation?
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