Safe Church

The Diocese of Missouri has a zero-tolerance policy for any type of clergy sexual misconduct.

We define three categories:

1. Sexual abuse of children or others unable to give consent.
2. The establishment of a sexual relationship (including dating of a parishioner or member of the church's staff) of a cleric in his/her congregation.
3. Any type of sexual harassment of church employees.

We have significant training for congregations, clergy and diocesan leadership to prevent sexual misconduct of clergy.

This training is called Safeguarding God's Children and is required for:

1. All clergy - those ordained and also those in the ordination process
2. All employees
3. All volunteers who work with children

Every year, these three groups along with each congregation's lay leadership (Vestry) must read and acknowledge by signature diocesan policy and procedures concerning allegations and incidents of sexual misconduct.

Contact Jillian Smith in the Bishop's Offices to arrange for Safeguarding Training.

Background checks are required for the following:

1. All clergy
2. All employees
3. All volunteers who work with children

We investigate any charges against a member of the clergy immediately upon receiving that charge.

We also move aggressively with any who are guilty of these charges. For details, download the Diocese of Missouri policies and procedures on sexual misconduct.

Issues of Sexual Harassment

Training in sexual harassment awareness and prevention is required of all salaried employees in the diocese, its congregations, and agencies. Maintenance and clerical employees are not required to have the training, but are encouraged to attend a workshop.

Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse

Training in sexual abuse prevention is required of all employees of the Diocese, its congregations, and agencies who work with youth.

The Diocese of Missouri's Policies and Procedures Concerning Allegations and Incidents of Sexual Misconduct and the Acknowledgement of Receipt of Policies are sent yearly to each congregation in their annual meeting packets.

The Acknowledgement of Receipt of Policies must be signed on or before April 1 of each year by the following:

1. All clergy
2. All volunteers who regularly supervise youth activities
3. All Vestry/Bishop's Committee members
4. All employees

The signed forms should be returned on or before April 1 to:

The Offices of the Bishop
1210 Locust Street, 3rd floor
St. Louis, MO 63103

Contact Jillian Smith in the Bishop's Office for more information.