In an effort to strengthen our church communities to be safe spaces for all people, Atlantic Coast Conference works to provide resources to prevent abuse, support survivors and keep children safe. Anyone who believes that an ACC minister has engaged in misconduct or ministerial sexual misconduct should contact the Conference Safety Liaison, Nelson Yoder: (csl@atlanticcoastconference.net) to make a report.
Pennsylvania’s Child Protection Law requires clearances on employees and volunteers who have “direct contact” with children and makes all those with frequent direct contact with children and all credentialed leaders (clergy) mandated reporters. ACC has decided to implement the same requirements for all of the Conference’s credentialed leaders regardless of the state they live and serve in. Under this new law clearances are also required for other church volunteers. Understanding who needs clearances and getting all of the documents in order can be overwhelming. To aid in this process here are the need to know items.
If you have any questions regarding the needed clearances please feel free to contact your conference minister or Brook Musselman, Conference Youth Minister (BrookM@atlanticcoastconference.net).
Who needs clearances?
All employees age 14 and older and volunteers over the age of 18 who have “direct contact” with a child or children. This includes all credentialed leaders regardless of their contact level with children. A child is defined by the law as anyone under the age of 18. Direct contact can be defined as those acting in lieu of or on behalf of a parent or guardian, someone providing care, guidance, supervision and or has routine interaction.
Pennsylvania clearance instructions
Employees and volunteers should visit https://www.dhs.pa.gov/KeepKidsSafe/Clearances/Pages/default.aspx and complete the forms for a Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance and Pennyslvania State Police Criminal Record Check. All employees and any volunteers who have not been a resident of Pennsylvania for the past 10 years must also complete the FBI Criminal History Clearance. These clearances are valid in Pennsylvania for five years.
ACC credentialed leader covenant (PDF)
This form must be completed by all actively credentialed leaders and signed by a congregational representative who has reviewed the credentialed leaders’ original background check results.
ACC youth events and the PA child abuse laws (WORD) (PDF)
This document provides relevant information to youth leaders and chaperones attending ACC youth events (Bible Quizzing, Fall Retreat, etc.).
ACC youth events volunteer covenant (PDF)
This form must be completed by all leaders and chaperones attending ACC youth events.
Youth Event Verification Form for Congregations/Employers, (PDF)
This form must be completed by a congregational representative who has reviewed the original background check results of those who will be serving as leaders and chaperones to ACC youth events.
ACC Child Safety Affirmation Statement (PDF) (ESP)
This form must be completed by credentialed leaders living outside of Pennsylvania.
Code of Sexual Ethics for Ministers (PDF)
To by signed by all credentialed ministers.
Healthy boundaries are a gift. They are helpful guidelines that give shape to our relationships. God set boundaries in the creation of the world, not to limit creation, but to protect it and let it flourish. Having healthy boundaries is a prevention to abuse. The Conference is committed to providing ongoing healthy boundary training for our credentialed leaders.
All ACC credentialed ministers are required to complete the Healthy Boundaries 101 course within a year of credentialing, as trainings are available.
More Healthy Boundaries training opportunities can be found through the Mennonite Church USA Healthy Boundaries webpage.
Find training resources on the FaithTrust Institute YouTube channel HERE.
Atlantic Coast Conference is committed to providing a safe reporting process for persons directly affected by pastoral misconduct. Once the initial misconduct report has been received, an experienced, trained individual will listen to you, provide helpful resources, and walk with you through the process.
Conversations are confidential!
If you need to report misconduct or would like consultation about implementing safe church policies you may contact Conference Safety Liaison Nelson Yoder: csl@atlanticcoastconference.net.
Prevention & Accountability Resource
This document provides resources for MC USA congregations and conferences as they seek to prevent abuse in the church and respond effectively in the event abuse does occur.
Webinars on Prevention & Accountability
These past webinars are provided by MC USA on understanding and implementing the Prevention & Accountability policy resource.
Circle of Grace
Circle of Grace (2023) is a Christian safe environment curriculum that helps to form and educate children and youth about the value of positive relationships with God and others.
Recognizing and Responding to Sexual Misconduct (poster)
As we work to better recognize and respond appropriately to sexual misconduct, MC USA has created a poster designed to empower all members and participants in congregations to recognize and respond to sexual misconduct and abuse.
Sexual Harassment Tip Sheet for Employers
A brief list of recommendations for consideration, if/when addressing these issues in your workplace, from Wellspan Philhaven.
A Shared Understanding of Ministerial Leadership
This document serves as the polity manual for Mennonite Church Canada and Mennonite Church USA.
Forms for Reporting Misconduct
MC USA provides a list of forms and templates to be used in the case of alleged misconduct and the process following.
Congregational Policy Templates & Guidelines
To foster a healthy, transparent, and safe environment, the Prevention & Accountability resource recommends that congregations establish clear operational standards. Maintaining up-to-date policies helps protect church leaders, staff, volunteers, and congregants alike while ensuring administrative integrity and accountability. The following policies and guidelines are recommended to assist your leadership team adopting best practices for your congregation. We hope to have policy templates soon. Policy templates may be viewed or shared HERE.
Whistleblower Protection Policy
Confidentiality Policy
Conflict of Interest Policy
Grievance Policy & Procedure
To request additional resources or inquire about best practices, please contact the Conference Safety Liaison Nelson Yoder: csl@atlanticcoastconference.net