The Importance of Safeguarding Children and Adults in the Church

The Importance of Safeguarding Children and Adults in the Church

Safeguarding has become an essential focus for churches across the UK, and each year thousands of churches come together to observe Safeguarding Sunday. This isn't just an annual event; it's a vital opportunity for us as a community to examine how we protect children and adults from harm and to create a church culture that is safe, welcoming, and secure for all.

Scripture calls us to be defenders of the vulnerable. Proverbs 31:8 (NLT) says, "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed". For followers of Christ, safeguarding isn't just a responsibility - it's a God-given mandate. Yet, we know from the headlines and church history that the Church has sometimes failed in this. Harm has occurred where there should have been safety, and trust has been broken. But today, we're not just looking at the mistakes of the past; we're actively working to create safer environments for everyone.

Safeguarding is about more than policies or annual training - it's about fostering an open culture where abuse has no place to hide. When we discuss safeguarding openly in our churches, we empower our congregations to know what to look out for and how to act. Each of us, from our church leaders to our congregation members, has a role in making our church a sanctuary where everyone is protected and valued.

Last year, more than 4,000 churches participated in Safeguarding Sunday, reaching an estimated 240,000 people with the message of vigilance, awareness, and compassion. This year, on Sunday 17 November 2024, churches across the country will come together again, hoping to reach even more people and strengthen our commitment to safeguarding.

The call is clear: let's use this day as an opportunity to reflect on our journey as a church community. Where have we fallen short in the past? How can we do better in supporting those who have suffered harm? This is a time to celebrate the quiet, dedicated work of those who are making safeguarding a priority and to publicly commit ourselves to protecting the vulnerable in our communities.

As churches observe Safeguarding Sunday - whether through a moment of prayer, a dedicated sermon, or simply by sharing information - know that every effort counts. While Safeguarding Sunday is a powerful moment, safeguarding itself is not limited to a single day. Let's keep this conversation alive every day, creating a church where everyone feels safe, loved, and valued.

As we work towards a future where all churches are true sanctuaries, let's remember that safeguarding is at the heart of our Christian message of justice and hope.