Safe Congregation Statement of Principles

Dedicated to providing a supportive and nurturing environment, First Church Unitarian strives to ensure safety from violence and abuse of all kinds. Intimidation, coercion, sexual harassment, or verbal, emotional, sexual or physical abuse will not be tolerated.

Abuse is not the fault of the victim. We encourage anyone who has experienced, witnessed, or become aware of abuse to report it to the Minister, the Director of Religious Education, the Chair of the Standing Committee, the Head Deacon, or another trustworthy adult.

To implement these principles, the Safe Congregation Committee will, in consultation with the congregation and staff, develop policies, procedures, and a code of ethics for submission to the Standing Committee and the congregation for a vote.