Annual Conference 2023

Safer Sanctuaries Training Opportunities

"Safe Sanctuaries has long been a trusted source of policy and procedural guidance for abuse prevention in the church. First published in 1998, Safe Sanctuaries has guided churches and other affiliated institutions as they implement abuse prevention plans for children, youth, and vulnerable adults. A changing world, however, calls for new and updated approaches to the work of abuse prevention. This new resource, Safer Sanctuaries: Nurturing Trust within Faith Communities, builds on the strong foundation of past efforts while preparing churches for the work of the future." (Upper Room Books website)

Get this new book for only $10 if you purchase through the conference! Click here to order your copy today!

The publisher, Upper Room Books, has priced these books at $49.99 each; however, the conference is offering them to United Methodist churches in the Western NC Conference at a deep discount.

 

Training Opportunities

All training opportunities will be facilitated by Rev. Dr. Kevin Johnson from Discipleship Ministries who was part of the writing/editing team for Safer Sanctuaries: Nurturing Trust within Faith Communities.

 

Basic training (virtual)

We will offer multiple Safer Sanctuaries training opportunities this year. Attend one of these virtual training sessions to learn an overview of what is covered in the new Safer Sanctuaries resource. 

 

Train-the-trainer opportunity (in-person)

Additionally, we will offer a Safer Sanctuaries train-the-trainer opportunity for those who want to go deeper into Safer Sanctuaries -- how to develop/update policy and procedures to meet a church's specific needs and how to provide congregational training. This in-person training will take place at the Conference Center in Huntersville on Saturday, September 16th 10am-2pm (lunch will be included). You must register by September 11 to reserve your spot. Click here to register for this train-the-trainer event today.