Safe Sanctuaries
Bothell United Methodist Church is committed to Safe Sanctuaries policies.
What are Safe Sanctuaries?
We believe it is our duty as the Church to guard and protect the children, youth, and vulnerable adults given to our care. We want our congregation to be a place of safety, trust, and compassion: an embodiment of God’s love for all. By doing all in our power to prevent abusive behavior, and by responding appropriately to abuse when it does occur, we help God create a loving and just community. We strive to serve as a model for ethical standards in our community.
To prevent physical, sexual, and emotional abuse of children (infant – 12 years), youth (13 – 17 years), and vulnerable adults (18 years and older unable to care for themselves or unable to protect themselves from harm or exploitation) within all church-sponsored activities and/or programs
To respond to abuse that comes to our attention – whether within the church or in church-sponsored programming – in ways that promote victim protection, strive to stop the abuse, and encourage healing for all involved
To create and maintain a safe environment for children, youth, and adults to engage in the church community in person and virtually
Meet Our DSO
Barb Donovan currently serves as our Designated Safety Officer (DSO).
The DSO is trained in our Safe Sanctuary Policies as well as the Pacific Northwest Conference Safe Sanctuary Guidelines.
The DSO is the person that members of the congregation can go to with concerns and reports of policy violations.