Marlton UMC’s Safe Sanctuary Policy: Reducing the Risk of Child Abuse in our Church
“Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me. If any of you put a stumbling block before one of these little ones who believe in me, it would be better for you if a great millstone were fastened around your neck and you were drowned in the depth of the sea. Woe to the world because of stumbling blocks! Occasions for stumbling are bound to come, but woe to the one by whom the stumbling block comes!”
Because the tragedy of abuse of children, youth, and vulnerable adults is a reality in our world, and because we recognize our responsibility to ensure a safe and protected environment for our children, We have developed this policy and associated guidelines to reduce the risk of abuse of children and youth in our church.
Jesus made the importance of children clear when he said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of heaven belongs." Emulating his example, MUMC has grown to be an important place for nurturing children and youth in faith.
This policy attempts to prayerfully and faithfully identify areas of risk and take steps to reduce that risk. This local church policy is in compliance with the Greater NJ Conference Safe Sanctuaries Policy, approved June 2005. This policy and the guidelines herein are to be followed by all persons, ministries and programs dealing with children, youth (under age 18) and vulnerable adults.
