From multicultural congregations to long-established local churches, Baptist communities are completing their Safe Church Health Checks and the momentum is growing.
Across our association, churches of every shape and size are rising to the challenge of the Safe Church Health Check (SCHC) — a comprehensive process that helps congregations demonstrate their commitment to the safety and wellbeing of every person in their care.
119 NSW and ACT affiliated Baptist churches have now completed their Safe Church Health Check — a milestone that reflects the extraordinary commitment of congregations, staff, and volunteers right across our association.
Completing the SCHC is no small undertaking. It asks churches to examine their policies, their people, and their practices . Therefore ensuring that everything from Working With Children Checks and Codes of Conduct to Child Safeguarding and Support training is in completed. For many congregations, the process becomes an opportunity not just for compliance, but for genuine cultural change.
“A safe church is a welcoming church — and the work of building one reflects the values we hold at the heart of our communities.”
We’re delighted to celebrate two of our most recent completions, each telling their own story of commitment and community.
New Way Church — Canley Heights
This vibrant multicultural congregation worked across language barriers and busy schedules to bring every staff member and volunteer up to standard. They used consistent communication, regular meetings and active engagement with each ministry so they felt supported rather than overwhelmed. Their achievement is a testament to what’s possible when a whole community pulls together with a shared purpose.
Clemton Park Baptist Church
Led by Pastor Michael Pippett and a dedicated team, Clemton Park recently had their SCHC policies and procedures formally approved and minuted at their AGM. This a great example of embedding safe church culture into the very governance of the church.
If your church is yet to complete its SCHC, know that you are not alone — and that the effort is deeply worthwhile. Contact our Safe Church Coordinator Lauren Luiker for support and guidance.
