Responding with Excellence to an Allegation of Sexual Abuse within the Church

Abstract

When an allegation of sexual abuse arises within a congregation, it is critical to immediately contact and fully cooperate with authorities trained to investigate cases of maltreatment. In addition, faith leaders can take concrete actions to care for the victim, shepherd the accused, and respond sensitively to the concerns of the congregation. In order to respond with excellence, policies should be adopted long before a crisis arises.