The 2015 General Convention called for creation of an updated and expanded set of policies designed to create safe and welcoming space for all children and youth in our communities and those engaged in ministry with children and youth, and to prevent sexual abuse. (Read more about that process here.)

The resolution culminated in a model policy presented at the 2018 General Convention. The model presents best practices for creating a safe space, and local entities were welcomed to make additions or revisions that meet or exceed the requirements of the model policies in order to address the specifics of our local context.

A local task force in the Diocese of Ohio made such revisions and additions to fit the needs of our Diocese, and this Policy for the protection of Children and Youth was adopted by the Diocesan Council in June 2019. The Diocesan policies are mandated for diocesan-sponsored events such as Diocesan Convention, Winter Convocation, youth events, Bellwether Farm Summer Camp, etc.

Read the Diocese of Ohio Policy for the Protection of Children and Youth here.