Children’s Protection Policy
Salem Mennonite Church (SMC) stands in the Anabaptist/Mennonite Church tradition. We are committed to providing a safe environment for all who share in ministries and activities sponsored by the church, including all participants and members, their children, all who volunteer as church leaders, and all employed by the congregation including ministers and staff.
Following Christ’s example of giving respect and honor to all persons, SMC believes every person of every age and gender is highly valued. Crossing established sexual boundaries, whether in the life of the congregation or in the homes of participants, needs to be addressed.
Salem Mennonite Church implements a policy and procedural steps to discourage/prevent child abuse. Child abuse can be in the form of physical, emotional, sexual, or ritual abuse and includes neglect. While the primary focus of this policy is sexual abuse, our congregation wants to be an advocate for children in any instance of abuse when the health and well-being of a child is at stake. For these, as well as legal reasons, child abuse and sexual harassment by church staff or volunteers will not be tolerated.
Salem Mennonite Church is Commitment to the following
We will seek to follow Jesus’ mandate to “Let the children come to me,” (Luke 18:16) and “Not place a stumbling block before one of these little ones.” (Matthew 18.6).
Salem Mennonite Church will screen individuals working with children by conducting background checks. A current license or certificate from professions requiring background checks will be accepted in lieu of a background check (i.e., teachers, nurses, etc.).
We will conduct regular training and review of policies and procedures.
Please Click the following link to view the complete policy