In 2014, the center received funding for
a pilot program that enabled them to train approximately 20 leaders in
other communities around the country. The program has trained
facilitators in areas as diverse as Atlanta, Sewickley (a Pittsburgh
suburb) and Harlem.
The mission
of the SafeChurch program, says Crockett, “is to shift the culture of
congregations so that adults know how to protect children from harm in
the church and the community."
Faith-based
communities, once leaders in campaigns to end slavery and advance
woman's rights, are now becoming part of a broader societal movement to
eradicate the sexual abuse of children.
Although
members of local synagogues have participated in the anti-child-abuse
training, Crockett says the congregation-based program has remained
focused on churches. Finding a shared biblical narrative and common
faith values in conservative and progressive Christian congregations is
something they "do well" she says. But Crockett recommends that training
in other religious communities be done by someone who understands the
unique cultural context of each.
As congregation-based child-protection program goes national, director sees new challenges ahead | Faith | lancasteronline.com
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