Sexual Misconduct Response Committee

Scripture addresses the issues of leadership, power, and ethical conduct in many different ways. For those who minister in the name of Jesus Christ, attention to these issues is of vital importance to the church, for through these representatives an understanding of God and the gospels’ good news is conveyed. In mutual accountability and understanding, church leaders have the responsibility of moderating their own behavior in accordance with scripture and the example of Jesus Christ. An understanding of appropriate professional boundaries, held in common between members and leaders can help to prevent misconduct.

Sexual misconduct is both a betrayal of trust and a denial of the love of Christ, in which all relationships are rooted. As part of its Christian witness, the Church must make a clear and just response, so that the Church and its ministries may be seen as safe places in the community, places where it is known that sexual misconduct is not tolerated. The Presbytery of the Twin Cities Area adopts this policy as a means to care for everyone involved with compassion and justice, and in accordance both with secular law and the constitution of the Presbyterian Church (USA).

"The policy of the Presbytery of the Twin Cities Area is that all church members, church officers, nonmember employees, and volunteers of the Presbyterian Church, and related agencies, maintain the integrity of ministerial, employment, and professional relationships at all times. Sexual misconduct is a violation of the principles set forth in Scripture and is never permissible."

-Policy Statement of the Sexual Misconduct Response Committee, PTCA

Level 1 Prevention Dates and Locations, 2008

Level 1 training is given to all newly ordained pastors, pastors new to the Presbytery , as well as elders, deacons, youth workers and church employees.

To be announced

Level 2 Prevention Dates Locations, 2008

Level 2 training is given to those who have completed Level 1 prevention training. One must take a level 2 training every three years to remain in compliance.

To be announced

Congregational Resources

A letter to sessions	Why does our church need a Sexual Misconduct Policy?
Sample policy:Sexual exploitation and Harassment	Sample policy:Procedures for handling allegations of sexual exploitation or harassment against ministers, elders, employees, volunteers
Every church a safe church, every house a safe home:Domestic Violence Resources	SMRC Policy and Procedures