news article
Safe Sanctuaries training now requires renewal every five years
July 21, 2025 / By Rev. Jennifer Stamm, Vice Chair Safe Sanctuaries / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
The Conference Safe Sanctuaries team has announced an important change to the minimum standards for Safe Sanctuaries training across Upper New York churches and ministries. Effective immediately, all staff and volunteers who work with children, youth, and vulnerable adults will be required to renew their Safe Sanctuaries training every five (5) years in order to remain in compliance.
This update is designed to ensure that everyone serving in our ministries remains equipped with current best practices for creating safe, welcoming, and nurturing environments. By renewing training regularly, we refresh our skills and understand and reinforce our shared commitment to preventing harm and protecting those entrusted to our care.
Recognizing that busy schedules can make training challenging to plan, the Safe Sanctuaries team is offering several flexible options to help churches and individuals meet this new requirement:
- Free Zoom and In-Person Trainings: The Conference Safe Sanctuaries team provides free training sessions both online via Zoom and in-person. Churches and ministry groups can schedule a session at a convenient time by reaching out directly to the team. Already scheduled training sessions are listed here.
- Online Individual Course: For those who prefer a self-paced option, the Safer Sanctuaries Online Course is available through an outside provider. This course meets the conference’s requirements and may be taken at individual or church expense. Click here for information about the online course offered by the Upper Room.
Church leaders are encouraged to review the training status of all staff and volunteers to ensure compliance with the new five-year renewal requirement. Maintaining up-to-date Safe Sanctuaries training is not just a policy—it’s an essential part of living out our covenant to care for and protect the most vulnerable among us.
The Safe Sanctuaries team thanks all clergy, staff, and volunteers for their ongoing commitment to safe, accountable, and life-giving ministry. For questions, scheduling, or more information about training options, please reach out to the team at safesanctuaries@unyumc.org. Together, we can continue to build communities where all people, especially children and vulnerable adults, are truly safe and deeply valued.