Protection Policy Basics Workshop

Every church should have a clear, current Protection Policy to help create a safe environment for children, youth, and vulnerable people. But where do you start—and what should your policy include?

Join Rev. Kathy Pittenger, Associate Director of Faith Formation and Leadership Development for the Michigan Conference, for a free, 60-minute Protection Policy Basics Workshop. This workshop provides an overview of the fundamentals of a Protection Policy, also known as a Safe Sanctuaries or Child/Youth Safety Policy, and is designed to help church leaders feel equipped to write or revise their church’s current policy.

The workshop will explore:

• What is a Protection Policy?
• Why is a Protection Policy important?
• Who should be involved in creating the policy?
• What should a Protection Policy include?
• Screening and training resources
• Best practices for churches
• What to do if an incident occurs

Who should attend?
This workshop is appropriate for clergy, trustees, Staff-Parish Relations Committee members, children, youth and family ministry leaders, Sunday school coordinators, and anyone responsible for, or interested in, abuse prevention policies at their church.

When: September 29, 2026, at 12 p.m. or 7 p.m. (Eastern)
Where: Zoom
Cost: Free
Presenter: Rev. Kathy Pittenger

The same content will be presented at both sessions, so choose the time that works best for you. The Zoom link will be provided after registration.

This workshop is not a training event. Instead, it is an opportunity to gain a foundational understanding of Protection Policies and the key elements churches should consider when developing or updating their policies. Register now!