Edmonton resident (life sentence, so far). Dordt grad. Blessed with a P31 wife. Active on councils, committees, keyboards, societies, etc. and feel blessed by the opportunities provided.
There is a widespread misconception that the sole task of Safe Church Ministry is to help victims and deal properly with abusers after incidents have been reported. This is only partly true. Safe Church Ministry also works to prevent abuse from happening and to protect pastors, youth leaders and volunteers.
Imagine your reaction if you heard the news that fire had damaged your church and many people were injured. Now just change the circumstances. What if you found out that several children in your congregation had been sexually abused by a convicted pedophile at church functions and that your church did not have a proper Safe Church Policy?
What happens when, upon release, a convicted sex offender joins (or re-joins) a congregation? To date, my experience has taught me that there is no single “right” answer and that the process of finding the “best” answer will definitely test the mettle of a congregation and its leadership team...
I spent many years as a lawyer dealing with Wills & Estates and have been a "planned giving" consultant for many Canadian charities over the past dozen years. I often use the quote "Those...
My personal opinion is that, If possible, musicians should try to choose music that is connected to the pastor's message or the concerns of the congregation. I realize that, especially for praise...
Excellent response by Joyce! As a church musician for over 40 years, I've enjoyed the changes and have been rewarded by the education given to me by the younger musicians involved in our worship...
A quote that I've often reminded people of is that "there is no sin in synergism". When a Classis does it's job right, it is the connector and amplifier of the various ministries provided by its...
The matter would also be of some interest to the church's insurers if a "known abuser" is reinstated as a church leader and subsequently re-offends. It would be along the lines of "fool me once...
The decision as to whether or not to admit one to partake in the Lord's Supper used to be a lot simpler...
As per the minutes of the meeting of Classis Holland in April 25, 1849:
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Larry Norman's 1972 album "Only Visiting this Planet" was an album that was highly rated by secular and Christian music stations & magazines. He was eventually inducted to Gospel Music Hall...
Imagine that you are the only house on the block that does not have a security system and the signage that denotes it. If a burglar has to make a choice as to which home to break into, your non-...
I find it hard to understand that the implementation of a proper screening policy is being viewed by some as an unnecessary expense. It is an INVESTMENT in the safety of your children.
And...
I've been a church musician for over 35 years (organ, piano, praise team) and have sadly observed the decline of congregational singing. I agree with the majority of the online article. In...