As I write this article, the temperatures are starting to warm up and we have but a couple of weeks till the official beginning of spring. About town it seems everyone is eager to get active and get outside to enjoy the beauty of this area. Well, along with that will likely mean new scheduling conflicts for our parish youth.

Recently I, along with our rector and various clergy of North Kingstown, met with the Superintendent of Schools and other school officials to discuss our concern to support a healthy balance of academics, recreation, sport, and of particular importance to us spirituality.

That is to say that in our youth groups and youth education, confirmation courses, and regular services. there is occasionally a challenge to fit into a busy schedule, church, school and sport. This is especially difficult when various practices and events are scheduled during Sunday services, at which time we hope to be blessed by the presence of our parish youth. Those school leaders present were very supportive in volunteering to help reinforce, in the many school activities, an importance of rest and providing time for spiritual renewal and fellowship.

I bring this up this month not because I want to report or to recruit your support but to share with you that the clergy and staff of St. Paul’s Church care about the lives of all her members seven days a week. Having been called specifically to work with youth at St. Paul’s, I want to let parents know that I hope to pay particular attention to the needs of children and youth in any aspect of their life.

One concern that is shared by church, school and families is safety. Safety issues come in many forms. The church continues to consider physical safety issues in reviewing the safety and accessibility of church buildings. But this is perhaps the easiest assessment to make.

Following the development of our parish’s “Safe Church” policies, Sunday school teachers, youth leaders and adult volunteers are screened. In this regard the diocese has begun to support new programs and contract outside assistance in providing even better screening of church staff and those who work with children and seniors.

Perhaps it saddens you that this is a sign of the times. Even though North Kingstown is relatively safe compared to other parts of the country, unfortunately churches are becoming larger targets for those with evil intent. Assuring that St. Paul’s continues to implement safe standards for our children is not only a benefit and protection but a deterrent. Thus, for those of us who work with children, including myself, background screening is just one way we assure that St. Paul’s continues to be a safe place for everyone.

Other safety issues go far beyond the church in supporting safe families. Along with other lay persons, the clergy of St. Paul’s participate in other community groups and task forces to promote the safety of our children, including supporting programs to reduce domestic violence as well as reducing alcohol and substance abuse. There are also emerging safety concerns including children’s privacy and safety over the internet and via other technology.

In the next year I hope to incorporate these and other concerns into a forum for parents and youth. This would be an opportunity for brainstorming safe practices, meeting with community professionals (police, school officials, psychological experts, etc.) and exploring the developmental challenges of our children and adolescents. Physical safety, substance abuse and violence are serious enough issues that the church has an opportunity to play a part in educating, advocating, and assisting families.

I also hope all parents and parishioners will not hesitate to identify or share any concerns regarding the safety of our children and youth (or any generation, for that matter). We would like to know how we can support the families and youth of St. Paul’s to grow in a safe and supportive environment.

God’s Peace,      Alan Gates