Conference Policies

NEW: Safe Sanctuaries during physical distancing during the COVID

• 2016 – 09 Safe Sanctuaries Resolution – FINAL [PDF] – The 2016 Safe Sanctuaries resolution as amended and approved at the 2016 Adjourned Session.
  • Alternate download: 2016-09 Safe Sanctuaries Resolution [.doc] – This editable version can be used for copying into your church’s policies or to require signatures.
• 2016 – 10 Computer Network and Internet Access Resolution – FINAL [PDF] – The 2016 Computer Usage resolution as amended and approved at the 2016 Adjourned Session.
  • Alternate download: 2016-10 Computer Network and Internet Access Policy [.doc] – – This editable version can be used for copying into your church’s policies or to require signatures.

Selection & Screening

• Apply for Clearances Online:
  • Child Abuse History Clearance
  • PA State Criminal Record Check Online
  • FBI Fingerprinting & Criminal History Report
    • Under “Enter your Service Code to get started:”
      • Employees enter 1KG756
      • Volunteers enter 1KG6ZJ

For PDF downloads of the clearances, additional forms, and further information, continue to the full Selection & Screening Page.

Note: The State of Pennsylvania requires re-certification every 5 years.

Training Materials

• • Definitions of Child Abuse under PA law [PDF]
  • Free Online Training Course by University of Pittsburgh – This course is approved for 3 continuing education credits and has been approved by the PA Department of Human Services and Department of State to meet mandated reporting (Act 31) license requirements.

Response & Reporting

Report suspected child abuse or neglect to ChildLine at: 1-800-932-0313

• CY47 Form [PDF] – For use by mandated reporters. PA’s official form for reporting suspected child abuse, to be submitted to your local children and youth agency.
• Report suspected child abuse (PA) online – For use by mandated reporters. Requires creation of an account.

Other Resources

• Accountability Agreement Between the Eastern Pennsylvania UMC and  the Boy Scouts of America – A policy agreement between churches and the leaders of their local Boy Scout troops.
• Writing a Child Protection Policy [PDF] – A list of guidelines and points to consider when writing and reviewing your church’s policy.

External Resources

• UMC Discipleship Safe Sanctuaries Resources
• Church Mutual Insurance Child & Youth Sexual Abuse Resources
• “Look out for Child Abuse” – Penn State Child Abuse Resource webpage
• PA Family Support Alliance – pa-fsa.org
• Stop It Now! Organization