Dear Friends,

People turn to the church for many different reasons. Some seek comfort in a time of need. Others seek direction in a confusing world. Still others seek to be empowered by the presence of God in their lives. Whatever the reason for turning to the church might be, people will only find what they need if they feel safe. Our churches must be safe places, so that children and adults can grow in faith.

In particular, we must work to make our churches as free of sexual misconduct as possible. This manual is a powerful tool for congregations and individuals who seek to make the Church a safe place. The Commission for the Prevention of Sexual Misconduct of the Diocese of Virginia has spent two years preparing this updated manual, and it deserves your careful attention. Clergy, employees, wardens, and members of the vestry of every congregation should become familiar with its use and contents. Careful attention to these guidelines will help to provide a framework to protect our members

We have been given the incredible privilege of being able to work with God's children, both young and old. With God's grace and with appropriate care on our part, we can be worthy of that privilege.

Faithfully yours,

The Rt. Rev. Peter James Lee
Bishop

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This Manual was written by Cheryl Kenny in consultation with the Commission for the Prevention of Sexual Misconduct of the Diocese of Virginia.

Members of the Commission during the preparation of the manual: The Rev. Kent D. Rahm - chair; The Rev. Jacqueline Thomson - co-chair; Ruth Brock; J.P. Causey Jr.; The Rev. Bruce A. Gray, D. Min; The Rev. Torrence Hannan; Peggy L. Hombs; Catherine Keeley; Marilyn Lloyd; Norman Lyford; Barbara Maniha LCSW, BCD; Timothy J. Teague PhD; and The Rev. Ann Riggs.