The Family Ministries department also has information on how to deal with child abuse.

Church takes abuse seriously

Date: 8 June 2005
Source: South Pacific Division, Wahroonga, NSW

The Seventh-day Adventist Church is shocked and saddened by sexual assault allegations made against a Tumbulgum church member.

“It is both shocking and sad to find out that a member of our church would have such serious allegations made against him,” says John Lang, president of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in the North New South Wales region. “Adventists take reports of abuse seriously. We are a church built on strong family values. We treasure children and condemn all forms of abuse.”

The accused was a deacon at his local church. As soon as sexual allegations were brought against him, the church removed him from this responsibility.

“We have a clear policy against sexual abuse,” says Lang. “We want to ensure our churches are safe places for everyone, especially children. Any report of abuse is taken very seriously.”

“We are cooperating with the authorities in the investigation of the matter,” says Lang. “We will do whatever it takes to bring forth the truth and for the healing of those involved.”

Lang says the church will also provide pastoral support to the accused and his family.

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