Safe Sanctuaries
Welcome to the Safe Sanctuaries section of our website. The guidelines and training tools provided here are resources that United Methodist churches, pastors and youth leaders use to ensure safe surroundings for our youth and developmentally disabled adult dependent persons, as they grow in the knowledge of Christ at UM camps and church events in our communities across the state.
Calendar for Safe Sanctuary course offerings
Benefits of Safe Sanctuary Training
Intended for clergy and lay persons working with children, youth, and special populations, or for persons who simply want to hone their interpersonal skills as they work in ministry.Having members of your congregation certified to safely work with youth or developmentally disabled persons enables church leaders to assure members and guests that their place of worship is a safe environment. It is also an added "seal of distinction" churches can use to promote their programming and worship experience.
Course attendees will be educated on the different types of abuse and their warning signs. The course will also cover what measures and/or policies and procedures should be in place to prevent the possibility of abuse in church programs and at church events. The responsibilities of reporting and understanding the criminal justice system in relation to abuse will also be covered.
Two-part training opportunities will be offered across the state to enable interested individuals to take part in both the basic course, and the "train the trainer" course. Cost for the basic course is $20. The trainer course is free. Register by calling the church office at the location of the training.
Safe Sanctuary Basic Course
The Safe Sanctuary Basic Course covers all aspects of abuse safety. The $20 cost covers course materials. Upon arrival to class, students will complete an application and several other forms. The application and forms will be checked by Health and Human Services and the Nebraska State Patrol, which will enable the student to be certified for three years. Students should also bring with them to the course one pastoral and one personal reference, both complete with address and contact information.
Safe Sanctuary Trainer Course
Students must have taken the Basic Course to enroll in the Trainer Course. The cost is free. Upon successful completion of the course and background checks the individual will be certified as a trainer for one year.