Child abuse, in practical terms, refers to an act committed by a parent, caregiver or person in a position of trust (even though he/she may not care for the child on a daily basis) which is not accidental and which harms or threatens to harm a child’s physical or mental health or welfare. Each state has its own definition of what constitutes “child abuse” under civil and criminal laws, and each C4SO church should be familiar with the relevant laws and legal definitions in its jurisdiction. Many of the state laws include the following terms to define the actions of “child abuse” and “child neglect”:
- Physical abuse
- Neglect (both physical and mental)
- Sexual abuse/exploitation
For specific definitions of child abuse and reporting procedures in your state, review the state-specific reporting instructions.
C4SO helps congregations create a positive and healthy environment for children and students through a five-step approach, managed by a Congregation Coordinator appointed by the Rector.
The five steps include:
- Screening
- Training
- Interacting
- Monitoring
- Responding and Reporting
Learn more about these five steps in the Implementation Guide for Congregation Coordinators.
MinistrySafe equips you with the resources to create a complete child safety system.
We’ve made MinistrySafe training easily accessible, and it’s offered at no cost to C4SO churches and those serving in them.
How to use MinistrySafe:
- Contact your local Congregation Coordinator to receive your personalized link to MinistrySafe training.
- Once your email arrives, click the link at the bottom of the email.
- Watch the online videos and take the quiz. This will take about two hours or less.
- Once you’ve passed, you will receive an email certificate of completion.
That’s it! MinistrySafe will automatically update your training status and date of completion. Your Congregation Coordinator will be notified once it is completed.
Please note that some C4SO churches offer training through an alternate, comparable program. Please contact your Rector and/or Congregation Coordinator with questions or concerns. Your Rector is your point of contact if you’re unsure as to the name of your Congregation Coordinator.
Consult your state-specific child abuse reporting instructions.
Sex Offenders Groom Churches Too
What to do and say when a young person discloses sexual abuse
How to Spot Sexual Abuse in Your Church
Draw the Line: Relational Boundaries for Safe Youth Ministry
Saprea: Sexual Abuse Healing and Prevention Resources
Caring for Victims of Sexual Abuse
Pastoral Care, Confidentiality, and Sexual Abuse
Helping People Heal from Sexual Abuse
These are suggested resources that you may find helpful. They are independent sources whose opinions may not reflect or represent the views or position of C4SO.
September is Child and Youth Protection Month.
Deadline: September 30
Rector Compliance Form
January is Sexual Harassment Prevention Training Month.
Deadline: January 31
Clergy/Rector Compliance Form
April is Clergy Professional Development Month.
Clergy Training: The Connection Between Temperament and Leadership Malpractice
April 11, 1:00-2:30 p.m. CST
Questions about Child and Youth Protection? Contact Eric Vinson, C4SO’s Director of Operations.