Check out this recent article "Sex Offenders in the Pew" in Christianity Today about churches dealing with sex offenders attending church.
And if you face this situation, be sure to contact Beth Swagman at the Safe Church Ministry; she has great resources!
This is an excellant article.
Would be good for starting a conversation in our churches.
When a sex offender was being considered to come back to my church my Pastor asked me how I felt. (I am an abuse survivor and was talking openly about my journey.)
Because the man confessed, was in counseling and living in a supportive enviroment, his victims were not in our cong. and he would be not allowed to be with children, I felt it was okay. (It was still dificult for me emotionally but I believe we have to chose to care about all people)
I like the idea of the support circles.
I think abusers should never be allowed to be alone with children or vulnerable people in any setting including the church setting.