Theological Foundations – LCA Child Safety Standard 5

Under this Standard, we are called to ensure we use the greatest care when appointing people to engage and work with our precious children. We display this duty of care by using robust background screening mechanisms, thorough training to equip leaders, and structures and resources to support them. These responsibilities, while requiring effort, are completed in love.

We love because God first loved us (1 John 4:19). Love is shown in word and speech and truth and action (1 John 3:18). It does not cause fear (1 John 4:18) and does no harm (Romans 13:8; 1 Corinthians 13:7); therefore, our congregations are places of grace and goodwill for all people (Acts 2:46,47; 1 Peter 2:16), where people are accountable (Proverbs 27:17; Ephesians 4:25; Romans 14:12), encouraged (Hebrews10:24,25), and supported (1 Corinthians 12:25b,26). Out of love for each other, and especially the most vulnerable, we are aware of our responsibilities before God (Leviticus 22:31; Romans 13:10; 1 John 5:3) and civil authorities (Romans 13:1–3a), and we willingly act on those responsibilities (James 1:22–27).

N.B. – Background screening such as the Working with Children Check is required under Standard 5.
Please see the Vic-Tas eNews notice about changes to the Victorian WWCC.