VIVA Church has a spiritual, moral and legal obligation to provide a secure environment for children participating in church programs that are under the authority of the church. Everyone who teaches, helps or cares for children and youth under the influence of VIVA Church is required to follow the guidelines and procedures as defined in this course. The Church Board has reviewed and adopted this as official policy. This plan is designed to assist church leaders in their recruiting of volunteers and, to the greatest extent possible, provide for the safety of the children served by these volunteers.

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Child abuse is a criminal act as well as a violation of human conscience and dignity. It is a violation of God’s moral law within the trusted context of relationship. It is criminal behavior that causes emotional, physical and spiritual trauma to victims, and has destructive consequences for abusers. The devastating effects on the credibility of the church ministry and the name of Christ make it essential that the church take all appropriate steps to prevent abusive incidents from occurring.