“ Sadly , many conferences and organizations that direct content to youth and student ministry — where risk is greatest — have been almost entirely silent . In short , when churches make sexual abuse prevention a priority , resources are available and easily accessible .”
“ Sadly , many conferences and organizations that direct content to youth and student ministry — where risk is greatest — have been almost entirely silent . In short , when churches make sexual abuse prevention a priority , resources are available and easily accessible .”
system element in place . Though the survey reflected responses from Baptists , the findings are likely consistent for other denominations , with the exception of hierarchical groups that mandate certain child safety elements . An effective safety system to protect children from sexual abuse includes at least five elements :
• Sexual Abuse Awareness Training
• Skillful Screening Processes and Training
• Appropriate Background Check
• Tailored Policies & Procedures and
• Systems for Monitoring and Oversight .
At MinistrySafe , this is referred to as the 5-Part Safety System In 2025 , resources are readily available related to this risk ; unfortunately , many churches haven ’ t taken a single step toward abuse prevention .
Denominational action As of 2025 , every denomination has wrestled with a significant child sexual abuse issue . Denominational leaders know this risk exists in ministry programs . Are denominational leaders communicating to downstream churches ? If the denomination has the authority to mandate requirements , is that authority being exercised ? If the denomination does not have the authority to mandate , is there strong encouragement ?
Fear of communicating expectations Too often , denominational leaders are unwilling to require change , whether polity permits or not . There seems to be a fear that if a requirement or standard is created , it will create a bar that the downstream churches are not meeting . It communicates an unwillingness to communicate a bright-line standard that churches are already well below . It is important to note : the communication does not create the risk or liability ; the risk of liability already exists .
Fear of liability Additionally , there is a fear that strong denominational messaging could result in the denomination being joined in a lawsuit from an abuse allegation arising from a downstream church . Clearly , there is legal advice being given to denominational leaders that should be ignored ; in the meantime , children are victimized .
Kimberlee Norris and Gregory Love
The facts “ Messaging expectations to downstream churches does not create the standard of care ; the standard of care already exists ,” says Norris . “ All childserving organizations — including churches — should take reasonable steps to prevent foreseeable risks . Clearly , when the church gathers children , child sexual abuse is a foreseeable risk .” Regardless of what is currently communicated by denominational leaders , says Norris , the 5-Part Safety System is already recommended or required by the majority of insurance companies providing coverage to ministries . “ Regardless of which preventative resources are utilized , staying quiet at the top disserves the downstream churches and the children served ,” Love says . “ Children deserve a full-throated call for protection .” Norris concurs : “ There have been countless learning opportunities in the last twenty-five years ,” she says . “ The Church should be the safest place in town for children : we MUST get this right !”
18 CHURCH EXECUTIVE | JANUARY 2025