Church Assumption (RISK) #4: Our Church Is Safe for Our Kids: Why This Assumption Puts Children at Risk

Many churches operate under the comforting assumption that "our church is safe for our kids." They believe their focus on biblical values and tight-knit community inherently protects children. However, as Deepak Reju highlights in his book, On Guard: Preventing and Responding to Child Abuse at Church, this assumption is not only false but also dangerous.

Here’s why:

False Security in Faith

Churches often see themselves as sanctuaries, places where God’s love and biblical teachings guide every action. While this is an admirable goal, it doesn’t make a church immune to the realities of abuse. Reju warns that predators are drawn to faith-based settings precisely because of this assumption of inherent safety. By believing that their spiritual focus makes them exempt from abuse risks, churches inadvertently lower their guard.

This false sense of security can lead to complacency, where basic precautions like background checks, training, and policies are neglected. Abuse can happen anywhere—even in environments committed to God’s teachings.

Inadequate Policies

Relying on the idea that a church is "safe" often results in insufficient preparation for preventing and responding to abuse. Without written policies, churches may lack:

• Clear guidelines for appropriate interactions with children.

• Processes for reporting suspected abuse.

• Training for staff and volunteers to recognize grooming behaviors and warning signs.

Reju emphasizes that having no policies or inadequate ones creates opportunities for predators to exploit gaps in accountability. Churches must recognize that good intentions alone are not enough to protect children.

Victim-Blaming

When abuse occurs in a church that believes itself to be "safe," the response often focuses on protecting the church’s reputation rather than supporting the victim. This can include:

• Downplaying the severity of the abuse.

• Questioning the credibility of the victim.

• Prioritizing the preservation of the church’s image over justice and healing.

  
  

Reju notes that this instinctive reaction to "circle the wagons" not only silences victims but also enables abusers to continue harming others. True safety requires putting the needs of survivors first.

How PPE Kids Can Help

At PPE Kids, we help churches move beyond assumptions of safety and toward proactive child protection. Here’s how:

• Comprehensive Training: Equip your church with the knowledge to recognize and respond to abuse effectively.

• Policy Development: Our team works with churches to create robust child protection policies tailored to their unique environment.

• Screening Processes: Implement thorough background checks and vetting procedures for all staff and volunteers.

• Ongoing Support: From crisis management guidance to educational resources, we support churches in maintaining a culture of vigilance.

• Independent External Audits: Ensure your church’s practices remain compliant and effective through regular external evaluations.

  
  

Breaking the Assumption

The belief that "our church is safe for our kids" must be replaced with a commitment to vigilance, preparation, and accountability. As Deepak Reju states in On Guard, "We cannot assume safety; we must actively create it." Churches are called not only to preach God’s love but also to embody it by protecting the most vulnerable in their midst.

By partnering with PPE Kids, churches can ensure they are taking the necessary steps to protect children, respond to abuse appropriately, and create an environment where families can worship without fear.

Visit PPE Kids to learn more about our training and resources.