One out of every six boys and one out of every four girls will be sexually abused before they turn 18 years old. That’s according to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center. It’s a tragic statistic. What is more troubling is the prevalence of sexual abuse in the church. An independent investigation of Tates Creek Presbyterian Church in Lexington found that they could have prevented a youth pastor from abusing his position if they had better policies in place. The church has since developed a “Comprehensive Child Protection Policy” which requires unblocked windows and open doors if church staff meet with a minor. It also outlines how to report unacceptable behavior. These are good steps—steps needed to regain the trust of communities that look to the church as a place of refuge and spiritual guidance.