Safe Church, Safe Communities

Ensuring children and vulnerable adults are treated with respect and dignity and protected from harmful and abusive behavior
Relationships among people lie at the foundation of Christian community and are central to the life of the church. In the Baptismal Covenant, we promise to seek and serve Christ in all persons and to respect the dignity of every human being. Everyone who ministers in the Diocese of Pittsburgh – whether lay or ordained, volunteer or paid – is entrusted with the care of God’s people and is responsible for preserving that trust.
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This duty of care and respect is particularly critical in our ministry to those whose age, health or circumstances place them at risk for exploitation or mistreatment. Abuse of children and youth and of vulnerable adults in congregations, institutions, agencies, or programs of the Episcopal Diocese of Pittsburgh is wrong and will not be tolerated.
Reposted from ​https://www.episcopalpgh.org/
Summary of the Policy for the Protection of
​Children and Youth 
The Episcopal Diocese of Pittsburgh has established a comprehensive policy to ensure the safety and well-being of children and youth involved in church activities. The policy includes specific guidelines and requirements for adults working with children, aiming to create a safe and welcoming environment.

Key points for parents include:
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  1. Two-Adult Rule: At least two unrelated adults must be present at all times during activities involving children and youth.
  2. No Alcohol or Weapons: Alcohol must not be stored in publicly accessible areas of the church, and weapons are strictly prohibited at any event or program involving children and youth.
  3. Electronic Device Usage: Children and youth must be closely supervised when using electronic devices during church activities, and the use of social media and electronic communication is governed by specific diocesan policies.
  4. Screening and Training: All adults who work with children and youth must undergo background checks, screening, and regular training to ensure they understand their responsibilities.
  5. Off-Site and Overnight Events: Special guidelines are in place for activities that take place off-site or involve overnight stays, including supervision ratios, transportation protocols, and additional safety measures.
  6. Responding to Concerns: The policy outlines clear steps for reporting any suspected abuse, neglect, or policy violations, with mandatory reporting to the appropriate authorities.
Parents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the full policy, as it is designed to protect children and youth and ensure a safe, nurturing environment within the church community.
Title IV Intake Officers
Allegations of clergy misconduct can be made to an Intake Officer in the diocese where the alleged misconduct occurred. In the Diocese of Pittsburgh, the Intake Officers are listed below.
For more information on Title IV and the process that addresses clergy misconduct, see The Episcopal Church’s Title IV Website.