Safe Church Policy
From the Diocese of Pennsylvania
The purpose of this policy is to create safe and welcoming space for all children and youth in our communities and those engaged in ministry with children and youth and to prevent sexual abuse. This policy is mandated for all activities sponsored by every congregation, institution, organization, school, and agency of each diocese. This policy requires that local leadership understand it thoroughly enough to make appropriate judgments about local circumstances. Church governing bodies and all leaders should consult with the Office of the Bishop when unanticipated situations arise.
No policy can foresee every possible circumstance. Whenever applicable, questions of civil, criminal, and/or ecclesiastical discipline and employment offenses should be addressed with the relevant authorities immediately. Contact the Office of the Bishop for consultation and resources.
Click here to view the Diocese of Pennsylvania's Safe Church Resource page.
Click here to download the full policy document.
Employees, Volunteers, and Key Holders of St. James' Episcopal Church
If you have been asked to complete Safe Church Training/Clearances, look below to find your position and related requirements. If you need access to Praesidium for Safe Church training modules, please email Lauren Exley (education@stjames-episcopal.org).
Completed clearances can be returned in hardcopy or emailed to Lauren (education@stjames-episcopal.org). You do not need to provide copies of your Safe Church training certificates as we have access to your results through our system.
Clearances must be updated every 5 years, and Safe Church Training must be updated every 3 years.
Note: Employees who have not lived in Pennsylvania for at least 10 years must also complete FBI Fingerprinting (https://www.identogo.com/). Volunteers who have not lived in Pennsylvania for at least 10 years must complete an affidavit. Contact the office for a copy.
