Here’s a public relations nightmare in the works: A church hires a registered sex offender to do janitorial work. The local paper covers the story with some bias. A quote from a church staff member that says the hire is a “non-event” is followed up by the observation, “The church is in close proximity to the town’s new swimming pool which will soon be filled with youngsters. And the church has many young parishioners of its own.” Then comes the news that this is the second sex offender working at the church.
Ouch.
You can debate the merits of those staffing decisions all you want. Extend grace to the marginalized or protect the children? It’s a debate we’ve had before.
But here’s the twist: How should the church respond when it feels it’s been misrepresented in the local news? The Monday Morning Insight is collecting advice on the best way to respond.
Betsy
August 31, 2006
Although we are not in the position at this time to hire our senior pastor, much less other staff, it is a good issue to think about. The discussion on MMI is very informative and helpful.
Thank you for always presenting thought-provoking topics and relevant issues.
J R Mortland III (Bob)
August 31, 2006
wow, this is really bad. How do they not know he is a sex offender???
Angel|Daniels@seo
July 11, 2007
People can always change. Everybody deserves a second chance. If God can forgive us with all those bunch of sins we’ve made, why cant we? THe church is for everybody.
Keith Richard radford Jr.
October 9, 2007
Since when do scientist or people of faith have the corner on what is right for mankind?
Science and Religions have both made mistakes which have cost them and mankind dearly. Without inclusive to all, choices offered to all, there can be no peace, unity, or care for mankind.
Look we went over to Iraq to install the perfect government, which became the perfect failure. We now want to give in to more diversity.
In California there is a ballot which if you seem too effeminate, as a male or too masculine as a female you will not be able to work. Discrimination divides us all. United States needs to pass on the need for control of its people concerning sex and get to the matters that matter.