Health Ministry Protecting Our Children at Church

"Suffer the little children come unto me, and forbid them not, for such is the kingdom of heaven" is one of Jesus’ teachings regarding children. What is our responsibility to children in the Christian community? Children are vulnerable as evidenced by child abuse and neglect, which is rampant in our society. Jesus was aware of the dangers to children when he warned "whosoever shall offend these little ones, it is better that a millstone be placed around his neck and he be drowned in the midst of the sea." Paul warned of the "wolves" in our midst and pleaded with each member to care for the other.

Nation-wide reports mention that strict screening has discouraged child predators from seeking access to children through secular groups such as scouts, sports, and public schools. The disturbing result is that crime against children has risen in churches across the United States because a trusting community makes churches vulnerable. Churches always have a need for a large number of volunteers and often there is little or no screening of these individuals. Also parents tend to feel that their children are safer at church activities than in other settings so they are less vigilant.

In an effort to protect the children and youth at St. Andrew’s, screening measures are already in place. Our Preschool/Kindergarten follows state-mandated regulations requiring background checks for all employees. Our children’s and youth ministries follow the St. Andrew’s Protection Policy Guidelines that were established in 1995, which require a screening of all volunteers. The Health Ministry and the Directors of Preschool and Children’s Ministry agree that these policies need to be frequently evaluated to ensure their effectiveness.

As conscientious members of our congregation, we all need to be alert to safety hazards and aware of strangers loitering on our campus. Any situation observed that does not appear "quite right" needs to be reported to the church office immediately. Our pastors are also aware of this potential danger and urge anyone with a concern to come to them. Parents are urged to supervise their children closely, on the playground and around the church campus, knowing where they are and what they are doing at all times. Out of concern for the children’s safety, as well as that of equipment and facilities, children should not be allowed to roam freely. The growing number of children attending St. Andrew’s each week is evidence of the future church. It is the responsibility of every adult (not just their parents) to "look out" for him or her. This begins by being aware that churches are no longer immune to those who would do children harm.