Limited Access Agreements
Pastor Peter D. Asplin
Assistant to the Bishop
peter.asplin@swpasynod.org | 412-367-8222
Sexual abuse, sexual violence, intimate partner abuse and violence, and other sexual crimes are far too common in the world, and have been common for far too long (see Genesis 34 for a Biblical example). Our church has been clear in confronting sexual violence, especially toward children, and working to protect those who have suffered.
As the church of Christ, we are faced with a dilemma. We believe that the gospel of Christ’s welcome and hope is for all, including people who have proved themselves to be a danger to others. Our church seeks to be a place where anyone who needs to hear the good news of Jesus Christ is welcome. However, as our social statement The Church and Criminal Justice: Hearing the Cries notes, “congregations that contemplate allowing anyone [to participate in the life of the congregation] who has been convicted of a sexual offense or who the congregation believes may present a danger to children or others should prayerfully realize that we also are called to protect the innocent and vulnerable.”
In order to balance these two commitments, our church encourages congregations and sexual offenders to respond with openness, honesty, and clear expectations. One recommended practice is the use of Limited Access Agreements. These agreements set forth the congregation’s commitment to sharing good news and provide clear expectations regarding participation in the congregation. They often include a requirement that the offender only be present when an accountability partner is also present.
For example, the agreement may provide for the offender to join the congregation at worship, as long as an accountability partner is present. The agreement may also limit which restroom facilities the offender may utilize and require the offender to let the accountability partner know before heading to the restroom. If an offender refuses to abide by the agreement, or refuses to agree altogether, a congregation must act to prevent that individual from being present out of care for the vulnerable among us.
Limited Access Agreements signal both a desire to welcome and a commitment to safety. These clear boundaries contribute to healthy, safe churches. If your congregation is facing a circumstance where a Limited Access Agreement would be helpful, please reach out to Bishop Kusserow or myself.