Join now to access this member-only content
Become a Member
Already a member? Log in for full access.
Churches sometimes receive a communication that can be deemed “hate mail”: a letter delivered to the church, a note placed there, an email, a voicemail left on the church’s phone. It could even be sent through a social media platform. We spoke with attorney Frank Sommerville about his experience with these situations and how churches should respond when they occur.
What’s a useful, working approach for churches in terms of understanding these messages? How can churches determine when messages need to be taken to local authorities (and when they can be dismissed)?
There is no one response. It depends on who sent it, whether it’s anonymous, whether or not it’s specific, what the threat is: It depends on lots of variables.
If taken to local authorities, would the police do anything with the threat?
Not necessarily. It depends, again, on what kind of threat: ...
Related ResourcesVisit Store
Sex Offenders in the Church
Legal and safety concerns to address when dealing with a sex offender.
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.
Church Board Guide to Developing a Risk Management Strategy
Learn how to develop and implement a risk management strategy in your church.
Understanding Church Insurance
Understand your church's insurance needs to be assured you have adequate coverage.
