On Dilemma’s Horns

Q: I’ve recently become aware that a person attending my church has a history of dealing inappropriately with children. I feel everyone should know who this person is, so that our children are protected. What do you think I should do?

A: This is a very delicate matter. Your concern is quite valid. One’s initial reaction is to do whatever is needed to ensure the safety of children, and this is a heavy responsibility at the best of times.
Not only should all adults look out for all children—including those not their own—but they have a responsibility to report incidents of child molestation, no matter how trivial it might seem.
However, and this is where it gets tricky, if the person in question is attending church, you cannot discount the possibility that he/she might be seeking to start a new life.
Church is not meant to be club for the saved but a hospital for the sick, the ill and the dying. After all, everyone, even long-standing church members, is in desperate need of the grace of God.
Church is a place for forgiveness and redemption, yet having said that, it also needs to be a safe place for everyone, including our children.
According to the law in Australia, a person wishing to work with children needs to apply for a police check, and no-one without it should be allowed access to children.
This is because predatory perpetrators seek out places where they will have contact with children and where they’re camouflaged.
I would suggest you first discuss this matter confidentially with your minister and find out what safety measures are in place to keep the children safe.
Do not discuss this with everyone or make it common knowledge, as no useful purpose can be served through this action, but make sure this person is not placed in a position of trust with children.
As I said, this is a delicate matter with major implications in either direction, and caution and restraint are necessary.