Our CM programs are unrestricted
Your Question:
“We don’t have any restrictions on who can go into the CM area or rooms. We have never had a problem; but we don’t want to wait until there is one. How can we create a safer CM area during programs?”
The Issues:
The challenge is that you want “everyone to feel welcome” in your CM areas. Unfortunately, this is a dangerous perspective. During check-in or checkout, the CM area will be busy and crowded. There will be no restrictions on entry during those times. During those times, you should be moving around in the hallways listening, and watching. If you have available members of the CM team who normally serve in the hallways, they should also be present in the hallways. Restricting access to the CM areas after check-in and before checkout requires that you and the CM team stand strong to protect the children.
Scripture Foundation:
“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” 1 Peter 5:8
Short Answer:
The sad part of ministering in today’s world is that we must consider everyone as a potential threat to the children. Restricting access to the CM area during programs is a foundational perspective that we must develop. This restriction can come in the form of movable barriers staffed by CM team members, or simply a CM team member posted at the entrance to the CM area. The CM team members who occupy this post must be friendly, yet stern. They may have to ask an adult to wait to enter or to come back when the area is open. These team members must also be able to communicate with the CM Director/Pastor via radio or phone when a parent states that he/she must checkout a child before the end of the service or program. If the church has security personnel present during these times, it is critical that the CM team member be able to communicate with security personnel at all times. Restricting access to the CM area requires strong team members and strong policies. When enforcing the restriction, it is always good to remind the parent or adult that these restrictions are in place to protect the children. If the adult demands that he/she be given access, the CM Director/Pastor will be called to address the issue. For more help, click on the links below.
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