What We Mean by “Safe Church”
Safe Church, Safe Communities is our parish’s commitment — and requirement — to build and maintain sacred spaces of trust, dignity, and justice for all.
Why It Matters
Rooted in our Baptismal Covenant and our Christian responsibility, Safe Church reflects our promise to:
- Seek and serve Christ in all persons, loving our neighbor as ourselves.
- Honor the dignity of every human being, especially children, youth, and vulnerable adults.
- Acknowledge and address the inherent power imbalances in ministry settings — understanding that abuse or misconduct is never acceptable.
From Liability to Wholeness
What began as a way to minimize liability (“Safeguarding God’s Children”) has become a deeper spiritual and communal practice. Since 2017, the Episcopal Church has embraced Safe Church, Safe Communities as a theologically grounded and relational approach. The focus has shifted from simply avoiding harm to actively nurturing healing, respect, inclusion, and accountability.
We are not just checking boxes — we are building a Church where all people can grow in faith and safety.
Who Participates
The Episcopal Church requires Safe Church training for:
- All clergy (active and retired)
- Parish staff
- Vestry members and church leaders
- Anyone who works with children, youth, or vulnerable adults
Training is required every three years, and updated modules are accessible through online learning or diocesan-led sessions.
What the Training Covers
Training includes:
- Healthy boundaries in ministry
- Prevention of sexual misconduct
- Anti-harassment and anti-bullying practices
- Pastoral relationships and confidentiality
- Recognizing and responding to abuse
- Creating a culture of safety and mutual respect
We believe this work honors Christ, strengthens our community, and helps us become a Church where love is not only preached, but practiced.
Additional Requirements
In addition to training, individuals working with children, youth, or vulnerable adults must complete:
- Pennsylvania Criminal Background Check: https://epatch.pa.gov/home
- Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance: https://www.compass.state.pa.us/cwis/public/home
- FBI Fingerprinting (if you have not lived in PA for the past 10 continuous years): https://uenroll.identogo.com/
These clearances are valid for five years and must be kept current.
Resources and Links
Resources and Helpful Links
- Diocese of Central PA – Safe Church Overview
https://diocesecpa.org/safechurch/ - Diocese of Central PA – Training Information
https://diocesecpa.org/safechurch-training/ - Diocese of Central PA – Safe Church Resources
https://diocesecpa.org/safechurch-resources/ - Praesidium Academy Login (for online training)
https://app.praesidiuminc.com/EnrollUser/CentralPA - The Episcopal Church – Safe Church, Safe Communities
https://www.episcopalchurch.org/safe-church/ - Pennsylvania State Background Check Info
https://www.dhs.pa.gov/KeepKidsSafe/Pages/default.aspx