Child Safety Policies of St. Mark’s Church
The safety and well being of our children are of primary importance here, at St. Mark’s Church. All people must feel safe and secure in order to grow spiritually in their life in Christ. It is for this reason that we are adopting the Child Safety Policies set forth by the Diocese of Chicago and communicating with you the following policies.
General Policies
All classes, nursery through youth groups and adult formation, enjoy an open door policy. This means two things: 1. anyone can see into the classrooms at all times, and 2. you are welcome to visit a class at anytime.
Every classroom must have a minimum of 2 adults, defined as anyone at least18 years of age and out of high school.
Nursery Care
The nursery is primarily for children ages 0 to 3 years old, however children up to 8 years old are welcome to be in the nursery. All children must be signed both in and out of the nursery by a parent or designated adult. No child will be released to an unknown adult, older sibling, or allowed to leave on their own.
Several children like to go from formation class, to the nursery, and then into worship service for communion. A parent will need to pick the child up from class, sign that child into the nursery, and then sign the child out of the nursery to bring the child to worship. A very convenient time to sign a child out for worship is during the passing of the peace.
Sunday School/ Christian Formation Classes
Children ranging in age from 3 years old up through 2nd grade must be dropped off and picked-up from their classroom by a parent or designated adult. The teachers will not release a child to an unknown adult, older sibling, or let the child leave on their own.
We, at St. Mark’s Church, adhere to the Diocesan Policies of Behavior for Youth Group meetings and events. Detailed copies of these polices may be obtained from the Formation Office. Permission slips for all events must be completed and kept with youth group leaders at all times.
Adult Teachers/ Leaders / Employees/ Volunteers
All employees and volunteers for any aspect of life and mission at St. Mark’s Church will complete an application for the requested position, either volunteer or paid, and then a background check will be completed.
All volunteers will be given a Misconduct Prevention Manual (“Keeping God’s People Safe”), read through it with a church officer, and sign a form (to be kept in the church offices) stating that this has been completed.
All adults involved in any capacity with children and youth will sign a “Covenant of Conduct” to be kept on file in the church offices.