Jesus said, “Whoever welcomes child…welcomes me” (Matthew 18:5). Jesus also said, “If any of you put a stumbling block before one of these little ones…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” (Matthew 18:6).
In April 1996, the General Conference of The United Methodist Church adopted a resolution aimed at reducing the risk of child sexual abuse in the church. This has been expanded to include youth and vulnerable adults. God calls us to make our churches safe places, protecting children and other vulnerable persons from sexual, physical, verbal, and emotional abuse. God calls us to create communities of faith where children and adults grow safe and strong. Thus, in covenant with United Methodist congregations, Brook Hill United Methodist Church adopted this policy for the prevention of abuse or injury to our children, youth, and vulnerable adults. The policy was first approved by Brook Hill’s Church Council on August 20, 2015.
Brook Hill is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for all protected persons and volunteers who participate in the church’s ministries and activities. All persons involved in a ministry that involves protected persons including, but not limited to, pastors, nursery volunteers, Sunday School teachers, Vacation Bible School volunteers, Upward Sports volunteers, youth group leaders, activity chaperones, and confirmation leaders/mentors must be background checked and trained on the Safe Sanctuary policy, including appropriate standards of conduct and the procedure for reporting a suspected incident of abuse.
If you are interested in serving in an area with children, youth, or vulnerable adults at Brook Hill United Methodist Church, please contact one of the children’s or youth ministry staff for more information.