Protection Policy and Procedures
When the crowd tried to keep the children away from Jesus, he was quick to respond, "Let the children come to me." Jesus taught that children were to be included and provided for within the community of faith. Today, the church may be the only place where some children find the unconditional love and care they so desperately need to grow and thrive. As Christians, we must take our responsibilities to our children very seriously.
We fail in our responsibilities if we neglect to take adequate precautions against abuse in our churches. It is unlikely that we can completely prevent child abuse in every situation, but it is possible for us to greatly reduce the risk by following a thorough practical policy of prevention. This policy attempts to do just that for the Conference agencies that deal with children, youth and vulnerable adults. It is based on our understanding of the widespread problem of abuse throughout our country.
Visit the Iowa United Methodist Conference website for additional details on Conference Policies or to read the PDF article (contact church if you need these in document form).
I. CHILD AND YOUTH PROTECTION POLICY
II. IOWA CONFERENCE 'SAFE SANCTUARIES'
III. POLICIES RELATE TO THE FOLLOWING
I. CHILD AND YOUTH PROTECTION POLICY
Mission of Carroll First United Methodist Church (FUMC)
"Connecting people with God through worship, witness, service and sharing."
Policy and Procedures (click to open PDF):
Children, Youth, Adult Volunteer Protection Policy and Procedures
Forms/Reports (click to open PDF):
Children/Youth Activity Registration
general family form to be filled out yearly
2nd part of Activity Registration about code of conduct and behavior
Participant Technology Consent
off-site/overnight activities that includes permission to travel and to have OTC or prescribed medication
If under 18 years old, need parent/guardian signature (please fill-out Minor form). The forms above include volunteer background check and policy acceptance. A volunteer who has not had a background check performed, through Carroll FUMC, may not be primary adult with any children/youth event or program activity.
If you are having trouble opening the above forms and reports, all are available in the church office. Volunteers of any age are welcome to apply to assist with Sunday School, VBS, UM Kids, Youth Group, and so much more. All volunteers will have a manditory background check; should it apply, may have a check done on their driving record. Carroll First United Methodist Church feels the safety of our Children, Youth, and Volunteers is important.
Questions or concerns, contact the Christian Education Coordinator, Suzi Olberding
712.792.1122 ext. 203 or suziolberding@msn.com
II. IOWA CONFERENCE 'SAFE SANCTUARIES'
Samples of helpful forms are provided in “Safe Sanctuaries: Reducing the Risk of Child Abuse in the Church” and “Safe Sanctuaries: Reducing the Risk of Abuse in Youth Ministries” by Joy Thornburg Melton, published by Discipleship Resources.
Iowa United Methodist Conference Center 515.974.8900 (Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.- 4 p.m.)
The obligations of clergy members under Iowa law, The United Methodist Book of Discipline (BOD), 2008, is very clear that pastors MUST report suspected child abuse. The Discipline states: “All clergy of The United Methodist Church are charged to maintain all confidences inviolate including confessional confidences, except in the cases of suspected child abuse or neglect or in cases where mandatory reporting is required by civil law.” BOD ¶ 340.2.a.5
TO MAKE A REPORT OF SUSPECTED CHILD ABUSE IN IOWA
CALL THIS TOLL-FREE 24 HOUR HOTLINE
1-800-362-2178
III. POLICIES RELATE TO THE FOLLOWING
Safe Sanctuaries are a part of the Building Rental Use and relate to the following (not limited to) users:
- Scout Troops
- Church Groups (both Methodist and non)
- Rental Groups
- Summer or After School Programs
- Special Events (Weddings, Funerals, Concerts, etc)
Please review the Carroll FUMC Policies prior to building use. If concerns or questions, contact Carroll FUMC's Christian Education Coordinator, Suzi Olberding 792.1122 ext. 203 or suziolberding@msn.com.
