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Sexual abuse happens when someone
in a ministerial role (clergy, religious or lay)
engages in sexual contact or sexualized behavior
with a congregant, employee, student or counseling client
in the ministerial relationship.

Faith Trust Institute


Sexual Harassment Policies

​Sexual harassment includes, but is not limited to, unwelcome sexual advances, verbal abuse or physical conduct of a derogatory or offensive nature, the display or communication of pornographic material, or job-related requests for sexual favors. Sexual harassment does not refer to occasional compliments or other conduct that is socially acceptable and does not have a discriminatory effect on the employment relationship.

From Brotherhood Mutual: Often, religious institutions encourage employees to engage in the reconciliation model laid out in Matthew 18. This approach is usually beneficial in resolving many issues. However, when harassment is alleged, employees should never be counseled to deal directly with that individual one-on-one before reporting concerns. As an employer, you have a legal obligation to provide a safe environment. If harassment is alleged, the ministry must immediately and thoroughly investigate.

"Keep in mind, though, that the most thorough and well-written policy is powerless unless it becomes part of the very DNA of the church community.  This begins by making sure that every member has a copy of the policy and fully understands it through ongoing education and training by church leadership, in partnership with abuse prevention experts."  Boz Tchividjian, The one best idea for ending sexual harassment; The Washington Post

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An important point from Jimmy Hinton to remember, "We will not put abusers on the defensive by having stronger policies. They are always on the offensive.  They adapt to our policies and training.  We need to stop playing defense and take a more proactive approach to detecting predators who are already among us.  They do not stop offending when we develop stronger policies.  They only become smarter and more skilled at hiding the abuse."
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Sample Policies

Sexual Harassment Policy from The US Department of State

Sample Sexual Harassment Policy from Free Church Forms

Sexual Misconduct Sample Policy for Presbyterian Church


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Mandated Reporting


Here's What You Need to Know About Reporting Abuse by Bob Ditmer
Video by Brad Hambrick
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Registered Sex Offenders

A Sample Church Membership and Attendance Policy by Brad Hambrick
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Failing to Inform IS a Coverup by Jimmy Hinton



Resources/Articles


​Sexual Harassment Defined & Preventative Measures by Richard R. Hammar

​The one best idea for ending sexual harassment; The Washington Post

Return to Prevention Page
  • HOME
  • I NEED HELP NOW
  • MISSION
  • AWARENESS
  • PREVENTION
  • HEALING
  • CONGREGATION
  • SAFECHURCH
  • STATISTICS
  • DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
  • CONTACT US
  • DISCLAIMER
  • NIOC Blog