Bishop's Committee explains Sexual Ethics Plan details

The Bishop's Committee on Sexual Ethics envisions making all churches safe sanctuaries for the proclaiming and living out of God's gracious, redeeming love for all humans. The churches should be places of healing, but Chairperson Alice Zaccarello, reminded the annual conference that, sadly enough, sexual abuse is present in the world and sometimes in the church.

 

The Bishop's Committee on Sexual Ethics was created for the purpose of preventing the tragic occurrence of clergy sexual misconduct and of promoting healing if it has occurred. It is made up of 15 clergy and lay leaders. There is representation from the Cabinet and the group work closely with Safe Sanctuaries. The committee has three areas of commitment.

 

EDUCATION (Rev. John Thornburg)

"Good policies and procedures have no teeth unless people know that they exist." The educational process includes raising awareness of the sexual misconduct and harassment policies that are found in the conference journal. This is accomplished through timely meetings with clergy and laity throughout the year.

 

ADVOCACY (Rev. Lisa Wolcott)

An alleged incident of sexual misconduct is difficult for all involved. The person making the allegation is especially vulnerable. Trained Resource Persons well-versed in the Disciplinary procedures are available to walk beside the aggrieved person assisting them with navigating the process and helping them deal with accompanying emotions.

 

HEALING (Carole Carsey)

A Response Team comprised of both clergy and laypersons has been developed to assist in healing of others hurt when a clergy person has been removed from a church due to charges of clergy sexual misconduct. Legislation for the establishment of a safe sanctuary policy for all conference and district events was approved at this year’s Annual Conference.