God has called us to make our ministries safe and to protect our children, youth, and other vulnerable people from abuse and exploitation. God has also called us to create communities of faith where children, youth, and other vulnerable people can be safe and grow strong.

Jesus taught that “Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me” (Mark 9:37 NRSV) and “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 NRSV).
The Social Principles of The United Methodist Church state, “...children must be protected from economic, physical, and sexual exploitation and abuse,” and “we affirm that all persons are individuals of sacred worth, created in the image of God” (¶161, “Social Principles”).

 

Building on these foundations, we recognize that our faith calls us to offer hospitality and protection to all children, youth, and other vulnerable people, as well as volunteers and employees who are committed to ministering with them. cases. In light of this, the United Methodist Church and each local United Methodist Church establish policies and procedures to create safe environments where ministry happens and to protect children, youth, and other vulnerable
people.