For the creators of Summit TV, their stories are beacons — for pastors and church members alike — that signal, I’ve been there, too. By RaeAnn Slaybaugh A visit to the Summit Integrated Systems website uncovers a wealth of church audio, video and lighting products and expertise. As a leader in this space, that’s expected. […]
Read More >
There is a different kind of global epidemic that we are facing as the Church about which no one wants to talk. Sex trafficking and exploitation is happening everywhere, even in our own backyards, and its root cause — childhood sexual abuse — is rampant. One out of three girls and one out of five […]
Read More >
Contractual risk transfer is a very important tool in any church executive’s risk management toolbox. However, because of its complexity, it can open the church to more risk if not used properly. Religious organizations routinely use third parties when the risk of an operation might be beyond their willingness to take on — for […]
Read More >
By Gregory Love & Kimberlee Norris Our church just completed a Registered Sex Offender (RSO) Policy. Will you review it and tell us if it’s adequate? We frequently encounter this (seemingly simple) question in our law practice. In reality, the issue is multi-faceted and complex, and tends to kick off a broader discussion. In the […]
Read More >
How to navigate a sexual abuse crisis at your church By Gregory Love & Kimberlee Norris The headline stunned the congregation of a large Protestant church: Church Rocked by Sexual Abuse Allegations. Church leaders took hundreds of phone calls from members, media representatives and advocacy groups. Social media coverage was immediate and savage, assuming the […]
Read More >
By Gregory Love & Kimberlee Norris Given the #MeToo and #ChurchToo movements and the ongoing media headlines, many church leaders have awakened to the risk of child sexual abuse and are seeking guidance about what to do. Others are taking this opportunity to evaluate existing safety efforts to measure preparedness. Typically, the criminal background check […]
Read More >
Kimberlee Norris and Gregory Love — founders of MinistrySafe and authors of the popular “Stop Child Sexual Abuse” series on Church Executive — have developed a free mobile app for followers of Christ to experience the events of Passion Week in real time: from the Triumphal Entry to the Resurrection. EasterNow, available in the iOS […]
Read More >
Proven strategies to keep your people safe — from recognizing red flags to re-screening practices, cost considerations, and navigating potentially sensitive conversations Many churches fall victim to an “it-can’t-happen-here” mentality. In actuality, what makes churches especially prone to ill-intentioned volunteers? Norton: The nature and admirable traits of most clergy is one of compassion and trust. […]
Read More >Annual Report Shows Americans Gave Over $427 Billion to Charity in 2018 In June, Giving USA Foundation, a public service initiative of The Giving Institute, released its latest annual report: Giving USA 2019: The Annual Report on Philanthropy for the Year 2018. According to researchers, 2018 was a complex year for giving due to a […]
Read More >
Proactive, proven strategies for protecting the kids in your care Q: What are the biggest risks and liabilities facing churches in the area of protecting children? D’Ambrosio: The days are over when ordering a background check on a new volunteer was the ultimate ‘extra-mile’ effort of an ultra-careful church. Today, a background check is […]
Read More >