Dear Partner in Ministry,

Recently, the Board of General Superintendents issued a Statement of Concern regarding Clergy Sexual Abuse Issues. Children’s Ministries shares this concern for the safety and well–being of children throughout the Church of the Nazarene. The enclosed Child Safety Guidelines and resources are to assist local churches in the development of their own policies, procedures, and safeguards.

Any policy and procedure for children and youth ministry should be checked by a competent attorney within the area of jurisdiction, to ensure compliance with all statutes and overall procedural viability. After developing policies and procedures, local churches and districts are advised to diligently follow and carefully adhere to them.

If Children’s Ministries can further assist you, please call toll–free 1–888–644–4510 or E–mail childmin@nazarene.org. I pray for God’s guidance as your church deals with this important issue. As we work together, we can make a difference in the lives of boys and girls.

Sincerely,

Lynda T. Boardman