Does child abuse have anything to do with us as Seventh-day Adventists? If you say no, think again!

It is easy to feel a little smug over all the media frenzy regarding the Catholic church and their cases of child abuse. You may think, “That wouldn’t happen in our church.” Unfortunately, you would be wrong. While there are some challenges that are unique to the Roman Catholic Church, we’d better remember the old adage, “There but for the grace of God go I.”

Sexual abuse in the church does happen!

The truth is that sexual abuse in churches, including Seventh-day Adventist churches, does happen. Sexual abuse is not just a Catholic problem. Nor did the media or the courts create the problem. Rather, they have responded because the church did not do its job of protecting people, particularly children. There is at least one study that clearly indicates there are many adult survivors in the Seventh-day Adventist church who can attest to this (Family Crisis, SECC Family Ministries Study, 1993).

Children in church settings may be exposed to sexual abuse because the church by its nature is a welcoming organization. We Christians talk much about love and forgiveness and grace, as well we should! At one time we sang, “Whosoever will may come.” All true. But what that tells a sexual predator is that the church is an easy place to find victims.

Furthermore, most churches are more concerned about protecting their image, either in the community or in the media, than in protecting their children. What is happening in the Catholic Church is a glaring example. Most churches, including our own, have been guilty of moving an abusive pastor to another church or conference rather than addressing the issue. The responsibility of conferences in these cases is clear.

Our third failure happens when we have failed to take seriously the voices of children in this matter. The common remark among adults is, “Well, you know, children can lie.” But empirical evidence is clear that the “lie rate” of children on this issue is slim to none.

So what must we do? How can we protect the children of our church from sexual abusers in the church? Here are some guidelines:

a) Keep your eyes open. Predators do not come with horns and a tail. They may be very charming, friendly people

b) Believe the children. If they tell you about something that has happened inappropriately, take it very seriously.

c) Pick and choose carefully. Do not allow anyone to work with children and youth unless they have been members for at least six months to a year, no matter how willing they are or how well they play a guitar.

d) Screen everyone who works with children and youth. Forms are available that ask for references. The references should be contacted. The church leadership should interview all candidates working with children. Materials are available to do this process with a minimum of effort.

e) Be proactive. Train volunteers working with children and youth about proper boundaries and behavior that will not only protect children but also the reputation of the volunteer.

f) Set up a protocol for each congregation that includes all of the above. You must take seriously the protection of the children It is your most sacred trust.

g) Follow the protocol!

h) Educate the congregation about these issues.

What if the unthinkable happens? What if a child is molested by someone in your church? What should be done?

1. Report the incident to a child protective agency immediately, followed by a written report within 36 hours. Pastors, teachers and many other professionals must do this by law! If the child is in imminent danger, call the police.

2. Remember that this sort of abusive behavior does not change without intervention.

3. If the perpetrator happens to be the pastor, also call the local conference administration and/or human resources department as soon as possible.

4. If there is a person in the congregation who has molested children, do not place them in a leadership position, or church office. This provides credibility that will make it easier to victimize children. In fact, someone in a congregation should be assigned to observe any accused predator at all times and all church functions. You should tell that person that it is for the protection of children and for the protection of the perpetrator against further accusations. While behavior cannot be controlled outside the church and its functions, it will serve to protect the church, its members and its children.

Finally, remember well the words of Jesus. “If any of you puts a stumbling block before one of these little ones who believe in me, it would be better for you if a great millstone were hung around your neck and you were thrown into the sea.” Put the safety of children first, for "of such is the kingdom of heaven" (Mark 9:42).

Audray Johnson, at the time of article publication, was Director of Family Ministries for the Southeastern California Conference.