Movement Church - Sexual Misconduct Policy
1. Purpose
This policy provides a safe, respectful, and Christ-centered environment for all members, staff, volunteers, and visitors. Our church is committed to operating in a high moral and ethical way in all areas based on the Bible. We are committed to preventing sexual misconduct and responding promptly and appropriately in line with Texas state law.
2. Scope
Applies to all employees (paid or unpaid), people serving, church members and participants in church-sponsored activities, whether on or off church property.
3. Definitions
- Sexual Misconduct: Any form of sexual harassment, abuse, or exploitation.
- Sexual Abuse of a Child: Under Texas law, anyone under 18 is a child. Sexual contact with a minor is considered abuse regardless of consent.
- Sexual Harassment: Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for favors, or other verbal/physical conduct of a sexual nature.
- Sexual Exploitation: Taking advantage of another person for sexual purposes, including through manipulation or abuse of authority.
4. Prevention & Safeguards
- Biblical Foundation: In everything we say and do, God’s Word (The Bible) is final authority. It defines for us right from wrong and provides us with our moral and ethical compass. Every staff member as well as person serving at the church will abide by the Biblical guidelines regarding morals and conduct.
- Background Checks: Required for all staff and as well as any non-staff member serving at the church.
- Two-Adult Rule: At least two adults must be present in activities involving children/youth. Additionally, no leadership team member is allowed to meet with a person of the opposite sex without following the Two-Adult rule.
- Counseling Sessions: Must occur in open or visible spaces, not behind locked or hidden doors.
5. Mandatory Reporting (Texas Law)
Under Texas Family Code §261.101, every adult is a mandatory reporter. Anyone who suspects child abuse or neglect must immediately report it to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) or local law enforcement.
Failure to report is a Class A misdemeanor, and in severe cases, a state jail felony.
Reports can be made to:
- DFPS Abuse Hotline: 1-800-252-5400
- Online: https://www.txabusehotline.org
6. Church Reporting Procedures
Any suspected sexual misconduct must be reported immediately to the Senior Pastor (unless they are the subject of the allegation; then report to a Church Board Member).
Civil authorities will be notified first in any case involving a minor.
A written incident report will be completed within 24 hours.
7. Response
Allegations of sexual misconduct will be taken seriously and addressed immediately.
The accused of sexual misconduct will be placed on leave from duties during the investigation.
The church will cooperate fully with Texas law enforcement and child protection agencies.
Confidentiality will be maintained as much as possible while ensuring safety and legal compliance.
8. Care & Support
Victims and families of sexual misconduct will be offered pastoral care and referral to licensed counseling services.
Support will also be extended to the accused while due process is followed.
9. Consequences
Substantiated violations of sexual misconduct will result in removal from ministry or employment, possible loss of church membership, and referral to law enforcement.
The church will pursue any additional remedies required under Texas law.
10. Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually by the Church Board and updated to remain compliant with Texas statutes and best practices.
This policy provides a safe, respectful, and Christ-centered environment for all members, staff, volunteers, and visitors. Our church is committed to operating in a high moral and ethical way in all areas based on the Bible. We are committed to preventing sexual misconduct and responding promptly and appropriately in line with Texas state law.
2. Scope
Applies to all employees (paid or unpaid), people serving, church members and participants in church-sponsored activities, whether on or off church property.
3. Definitions
- Sexual Misconduct: Any form of sexual harassment, abuse, or exploitation.
- Sexual Abuse of a Child: Under Texas law, anyone under 18 is a child. Sexual contact with a minor is considered abuse regardless of consent.
- Sexual Harassment: Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for favors, or other verbal/physical conduct of a sexual nature.
- Sexual Exploitation: Taking advantage of another person for sexual purposes, including through manipulation or abuse of authority.
4. Prevention & Safeguards
- Biblical Foundation: In everything we say and do, God’s Word (The Bible) is final authority. It defines for us right from wrong and provides us with our moral and ethical compass. Every staff member as well as person serving at the church will abide by the Biblical guidelines regarding morals and conduct.
- Background Checks: Required for all staff and as well as any non-staff member serving at the church.
- Two-Adult Rule: At least two adults must be present in activities involving children/youth. Additionally, no leadership team member is allowed to meet with a person of the opposite sex without following the Two-Adult rule.
- Counseling Sessions: Must occur in open or visible spaces, not behind locked or hidden doors.
5. Mandatory Reporting (Texas Law)
Under Texas Family Code §261.101, every adult is a mandatory reporter. Anyone who suspects child abuse or neglect must immediately report it to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) or local law enforcement.
Failure to report is a Class A misdemeanor, and in severe cases, a state jail felony.
Reports can be made to:
- DFPS Abuse Hotline: 1-800-252-5400
- Online: https://www.txabusehotline.org
6. Church Reporting Procedures
Any suspected sexual misconduct must be reported immediately to the Senior Pastor (unless they are the subject of the allegation; then report to a Church Board Member).
Civil authorities will be notified first in any case involving a minor.
A written incident report will be completed within 24 hours.
7. Response
Allegations of sexual misconduct will be taken seriously and addressed immediately.
The accused of sexual misconduct will be placed on leave from duties during the investigation.
The church will cooperate fully with Texas law enforcement and child protection agencies.
Confidentiality will be maintained as much as possible while ensuring safety and legal compliance.
8. Care & Support
Victims and families of sexual misconduct will be offered pastoral care and referral to licensed counseling services.
Support will also be extended to the accused while due process is followed.
9. Consequences
Substantiated violations of sexual misconduct will result in removal from ministry or employment, possible loss of church membership, and referral to law enforcement.
The church will pursue any additional remedies required under Texas law.
10. Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually by the Church Board and updated to remain compliant with Texas statutes and best practices.