Gouverneur First

United Methodist Church

The June 2011 Session of the Upper New York Annual Conference adopted the resolution creating a Safe Sanctuaries® policy to reduce the risk of abuse of children, youth and vulnerable adults participating in the ministries of our churches, districts, agencies and ministry groups.

Safe Sanctuaries® Team establishes minimum standards and procedures, provides training programs, and assists local churches and Conference ministry programs in reducing the risk of abuse to church, youth, and vulnerable adults.

Minimum Standards

The Minimum Standards have been established by the Upper New York Annual Conference for all ministries. They are mandatory. They are not inspirational, but set minimum standards to protect children, youth, and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation. Without exception, these standards apply to all local churches/charges, district and annual conference ministries, and those who serve within.

Our Safe Sanctuaries Policy