Shattered Assumptions: The Church’s Silence on Child Protection

I am not someone who makes assumptions about people when I first meet them. I’ve been around those who do, and I refuse to judge anyone without real knowledge.

However, my view of church is in a dangerous place right now. I assumed that the work we are doing with PPE Kids would be welcomed and embraced by churches, pastors, and elders. After all, protecting children is one of God’s most tender concerns. Why would anyone ignore what God so clearly commands in His Word? Why wouldn’t church leadership jump at the opportunity to protect the little ones—especially when cost isn’t even a barrier?

And yet, we have reached out to many churches, and every single one has ignored the call.

Even churches and Christian schools I personally know. Honestly, I am in shock. I don’t understand.

• Do they truly believe they already know everything about the dangers of grooming and the way sex offenders play the long game?

• Do they think they have nothing new to learn?

• Are they afraid to uncover the truth?

• Or do they simply not want to risk losing a member who donates or tithes?

I once attended a church where the pastor and I had a great idea—helping people discover who they truly were in Christ and identify their spiritual gifts. We were ready to launch the series, but one woman objected—and the pastor folded. One voice of opposition, one potential conflict, and he backed down.

Where is the strength? The boldness? The conviction?

I am not anti-church, but I struggle with its lack of courage and urgency.

Is this an obedience issue? A fear issue? An issue of ignorance?

Do they assume it could never happen in their church?

Regardless of their assumptions, we will continue.

Maybe this is a matter of spiritual warfare. I’ve heard pastors speak so highly of children and youth, but is that just talk? If children are being targeted, and perversion is so rampant, wouldn’t our vigilance match the attack?

So, we will continue the work He has given us, but we are shifting our focus. Instead of churches, we are pivoting to parents and grandparents—because they are, hopefully, the ones willing to listen.

There is a spirit of fear and complacency within the church, and I know that both of these attitudes play right into the sexual offender’s playbook.

Do you know why offenders target churches?

Because the church is forgiving—even to a fault. But the church is very busy and a bit lazy. It only puts out the fires directly in front of it. It is not proactive.

In some ways, the church operates like a business, but when it comes to risk assessment and risk management, it utterly fails.

And who is at risk? The children.

The children didn’t choose your church. They are forced to go.

Are they safe?

Are they being groomed? Are you being groomed?

Do you know the signs?

If you don’t even know how that could be possible, that is exactly the problem we are trying to solve—a lack of awareness.

Do you ever wonder why people are running away from the church?

You shouldn’t.

Please tag or forward this to any and all parents.

Our future is up for grabs.

Will you respond to the call to protect?

Contact us at info@ppekids.org for more information.