Thank you for your interest in serving in Family Ministry at Beloved! What an incredible privilege that we get to impact the next generation of the Church. Because we want to set the best example possible, there are a few things that we ask all of our team members to be aware of. We want you to be a role model for the next generation, and in today's “always connected” world, that extends beyond the gatherings where you serve.

There are some issues that are very important to the role you will play. We will cover these issues in more detail in order to ensure that you are clear on where we stand as a church, and the expectations we have of those who lead our children and teenagers.

Regarding Social Media Behavior:

The kids (and/or the parents of the kids) in your group will be able to see your social media activity. If you blog, post, tweet, Instagram, SnapChat, etc., the people you impact will probably follow you through those platforms. We think social media can be a great way to connect with your group outside of our gatherings. And because they’ll also be able to see everything you post, we ask that you leverage your social media in a positive way. Please be mindful of these guidelines, and we may ask you not to serve for the following reasons:

• If you use inappropriate language on a regular basis.
• If you post pictures of yourself in overly revealing clothes.
• If you post pictures of yourself engaged in inappropriate behavior.

In addition, because you are involved in family ministry at Beloved, the following guidelines will help you navigate social media in a way that honors God and sets an example to those who follow your leadership:

• Social Media gives very little context. Please think about what could be implied before you post.
 • Please do not post pictures of yourself drinking alcohol. Beloved does not believe drinking alcohol is a sin; however, we do believe that Scripture is clear that drunkenness is sin. If you post pictures on social media of you with alcohol, it is not clear whether that is your 1st or 5th drink. As a result, we ask that you avoid this on social media.
 • Keep in mind: other people who take pictures of you may post those pictures without your permission.
   • Be careful with articles and media you like, post, retweet, etc. (eg: divisive political posts)

We are not asking you to live a double standard or to hide your lifestyle. We just recognize the power of social media and the ability it has to miscommunicate our behavior. In fact, if the actuality of your life does not lend to leadership within the church we would ask that you step away from leading in the church until you can echo Paul’s words: “Follow me as I follow Christ.” Feel free to reach out if you have further questions.

Regarding Sexual Behavior:

We believe that sex was created by God as an expression of intimacy between a man and a woman who are married to each other. We also value the spiritual health and vitality of all of our volunteers over their ability to serve the ministries of Beloved Church. Because we value authenticity, we ask volunteers who do not agree with Beloved’s beliefs not to serve in Family Ministry. This is primarily because Family Ministry lends itself to having conversations that would point people toward Beloved’s beliefs regarding sexuality. The following situations may limit areas you may be invited to serve:

• If you are involved in a sexual relationship that is outside of the above definition.
• If you are consistently involved in pornography of any kind.
• If you are cohabiting with someone of the opposite gender (sexual relationship) and not married.
• If you are married and are currently involved in any type of inappropriate relationship outside of your marriage.

If you would like help or counsel regarding personal relationships, please let a pastor know. It is our desire to see you find freedom and health in Christ.

Regarding Substance Behavior:

If you have a recent history of alcohol or drug abuse, this might be something God uses in a positive way to impact the future of the next generation. We’d love to talk with you further about your story and how it can impact the children and students in our ministry. We have a few guidelines that will determine your serving placement, and a few reasons we may ask you not to serve at this time:

• If you have been arrested for or convicted of an alcohol or drug-related offense in the recent past.
• If you are currently being treated for alcohol or drug abuse.
• If you have used any illegal substance in the past twelve months.
• If consuming alcohol to the point of being unable to drive legally is a regular part of your lifestyle.

If you would like help or counsel regarding substance abuse, please let a pastor know. It is our desire to see you find freedom and health in Christ.

Regarding Interactions with Minors:

Ministry often takes place in unexpected places and at unexpected times. In addition, it often doesn't look the same as we are all dynamic humans with differing personalities and experiences that shape us. Even still, there are some expectations for how adults are to interact with minors for the protection of both the minor and the adult:

• Adults are never to be alone with kids. Always include others, even if it is just by being visibly present.
• Do not engage any sexual counseling or conversation with a minor of the opposite sex.
• Do not engage any sexual counseling or conversation beyond what is Scripture-based and called for in the curriculum established by the pastors.
        • The norm and expectation is that guys counsel guys and girls counsel girls. Should you find yourself counseling a minor of another gender, promptly bring in an adult of the minor's gender.
• Use appropriate touch. Do not touch a child sexually, in anger, in disgust, or any manner that may be construed inappropriate.
• Avoid abusive behavior of any kind and report any violation to church leadership.
• No form of physical discipline is acceptable.
• Parent/Guardian permission must be obtained before transporting a minor.
• Staff and volunteers should never be nude in the presence of children.  In the event there is a situation that may call for or contemplate the possibility of nudity (i.e. changing clothes during a pool party, weekend or overnight retreat, etc.), staff member/volunteer will submit a plan for approval to his/her supervisor concerning arrangements for showering or changing clothes with adults and youth separate.
       
Regarding Reporting Violations, Concerns, or Emergencies:

• Report any of the 3 hurts a child may share: hurting oneself, hurting someone else, or being hurt by someone.
• All reports should be given directly to a director or pastor by the initial witness to the disclosure.
• Do not ever promise confidentiality to a child.
• Partner with parents (unless deemed unsafe).

Regarding Volunteer Presence:

• Be present physically, predictably, and mentally. Being physically and predictably present requires consistency and consistency is crucial for the maturing and building of trust relationally with children. Fulfill your commitment to regularly serve for the school year. We ask that after regular & special gatherings that you remain present until all of your small group students have been picked up by their parent(s) or guardian(s).
• Be a Christ-like presence in the way you speak, act, and dress.
• Be a peacemaker and create a safe place in every way.
 
 All volunteers must submit to a background check. An email requesting consent will be delivered to the personal email address provided below.