PARTICIPATION COVENANT STATEMENT
First United Methodist Church, Grove, Oklahoma

The congregation of First United Methodist Church, Grove, Oklahoma, is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for all children, youth, and volunteers who participate in ministries and activities sponsored by the church. The following policy statements reflect our congregation’s commitment to preserving this church as a holy place of safety and protection for all who would enter and as a place in which all people can experience the love of God through relationships with others.

1. No adult who has been convicted of child abuse (either sexual abuse, physical abuse, or emotional abuse) should volunteer to work with children or youth in any church-sponsored activity.
2. Adult survivors of child abuse need the love and support of our congregation. Any adult survivor who desires to volunteer in some capacity to work with children or youth is encouraged to discuss his/her willingness with one of our church’s ministers before accepting an assignment.
   
3. All adult volunteers involved with children or youth of our church must have been active with their peers in the life of the congregation for at least six months before beginning a volunteer assignment.
   
4. Adult volunteers with children and youth shall observe the “Two-Adult Rule” at all times so that no adult is ever alone with children or youth.
   
5. Adult volunteers with children and youth shall attend regular training and educational events provided by the church to keep volunteers informed of church policies and state laws regarding child abuse.
   
6. Adult volunteers shall immediately report to their supervisor any behavior that seems abusive or inappropriate.

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