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Overview
For many years, I used a five-step checklist for minimizing the risk of child sexual abuse on church property or during church activities:
- a written application
- an interview
- reference checks
- a six-month rule (no one considered for youth or children’s ministry who has not been a member of the church for at least six months)
- a two-adult rule (no child allowed to be alone with one unrelated adult at any time)
In recent years, I added a sixth precaution—a criminal records check (national database and national sex offender registry).
After reviewing numerous recent precedents, developments, and key insights related to public revulsion of child abuse, I now recommend a 14-step set of precautions to manage the risk of child sexual abuse in churches.
Background court case
The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruled that a Catholic diocese was not liable on the basis of negligent hiring ...
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Church Board Guide to a Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Policy
Church leaders and boards can take relatively simple, yet effective steps to reduce the likelihood of child sexual abuse.
Child Sexual Abuse Response Plan
Put a plan into action to prevent child sexual abuse from happening in your church.
Mandatory Child Abuse Reporting Laws
State by state laws to report child abuse.
Sex Offenders in the Church
Legal and safety concerns to address when dealing with a sex offender.
