Our CM Policies are incomplete
Your Question:
“We have some policies, but they don’t cover critical “current” issues such as the LGBTQ+ challenge, the threat of violence, dealing with abusive parents, dealing with custody issues, etc. How can we make sure our policies are “current,” and cover everything?”
The Issues:
Your policies need to be “fluid.” As the ministry grows and as society changes, you will need to make adjustments in your policies to reflect the changes. These adjustments are usually procedural adjustments to make the ministry run smoother; but they can also be significant adjustments to reflect new dangers or challenges. If you need to make significant adjustments, remember to discuss these adjustments with your supervising pastor or senior pastor first just in case your adjustments cause objections from people who might complain to these pastors before they complain to you.
Scripture Foundation:
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3: 5, 6
Short Answer:
Reviewing and updating your policies should be an annual job. There are times when current issues in society or the world force you to update your policies more frequently. It is important to remember that the purpose or vision of your CM never changes (to fulfill the Great Commission by ministering to children and families), but HOW you carry this goal out may change as the society or community around the ministry changes. Just a few years ago, we didn’t have to consider our reactions to someone from the LGBTQ+ community applying to join our CM team. A few years ago, we didn’t have to protect our children as securely from those who may want to abduct or harm them. The rising number of angry or violent people in our society now forces us to develop plans for dealing with those issues within our CM team. Today’s hyper-awareness regarding inappropriate touching, offensive comments, or judgmental attitudes compels us to evaluate our screening processes, supervision standards, policies and training on a more regular basis. For more help, click on the links below.
