Safeguarding is a paramount concern within our church, and we are committed to providing a safe environment for all who participate in our community. We approach the issue of abuse with the utmost seriousness, recognizing the profound harm it inflicts upon individuals and the Body of Christ.

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Our commitment to safeguarding is rooted in both biblical and moral imperatives. We believe that every individual is created in the image of God and deserves to be treated with dignity, respect, and protection from harm.

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Furthermore, the Ordinal serves as a foundational guide for all clergy in matters of safeguarding. As ministers ordained within the Church, we are bound by the solemn promises made at our ordination to uphold the highest standards of conduct and care for those entrusted to our spiritual oversight. The Ordinal impresses upon us the weighty responsibility to "promote the peace and unity of the Church," which unequivocally includes fostering an environment free from all forms of abuse.

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For those called to the episcopate, the charge is clear: to "use the authority given to him, not for destruction, but for salvation; not to hurt, but to help." This foundational principle underpins our approach to safeguarding, ensuring that leadership is always exercised to protect and uplift, never to harm. Similarly, at their ordination, Presbyters are reminded of the grave consequences of negligence, understanding that "If the Church, or any of her members, is hurt or hindered by your negligence, you must know both the gravity of your fault, and the grievous judgment that will result." This underscores the solemn duty of vigilance and proactive care. Deacons too, are specifically called to "encourage and equip the household of God to care for the stranger, to embrace the poor and helpless, and to seek them out, so that they may be relieved." This diaconal ministry extends to identifying and protecting the vulnerable within and beyond our walls.

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Our clergy are therefore guided not only by their personal conviction and God's word, but also by the sacred vows taken before God and His people, ensuring a steadfast dedication to the safety and well-being of all. We are called to be "wholesome examples and patterns to the flock of Christ," and this mandate extends to diligently safeguarding the vulnerable and responding with integrity and compassion to any concerns of abuse. For this reason, we have required our clergy to review our policy manuals for the protection of children and the protection of adults. Additionally, we require our chaplains to complete training regularly through MinistrySafe.

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Since we have this sacred trust to care for the flock of God, we maintain a responsibility to respond promptly when people assert that this trust has been violated. To help facilitate a ready response, we have developed an e-mail address that goes to two key points of contact within the Jurisdiction. By e-mailing safeguarding@anglicanchaplains.org, information is sent directly to Archdeacon Kenneth Gillespie and Mrs. Lauren Ullman. You may also call 888.460.5556, ext. 101, to provide information.