The following questions appear on our GRBC Child Worker Questionnaire form. Applicants will be sent the form to answer. This page is not the form.
GRBC Child Worker Questionnaire
If you would prefer to speak to a pastor or a female counselor in person instead of completing this questionnaire, select ‘Yes’ to this question, and answer ‘No’ to all of the following questions and select SUBMIT.
1. Are you using Illegal drugs?
2. Have you ever been arrested and/or convicted of a crime as an adult?
3. As an adult, have you ever had inappropriate sexual contact with a minor (including but not limited to kissing, groping, petting, or any form of intercourse)?
4. Have you ever been accused of any form of child abuse, sexual offense or crime of violence?
5. Have you ever been convicted of any form of child abuse, sexual offense or crime of violence?
6. Have you ever been the subject of a child abuse investigation?
7. Is there any reason you should not work with or be around children?
8. Do you have any personal or physical concerns that may impact your commitment/involvement in ministry?
9. Do you now deliberately and regularly view pornography?
10. Do you now or have you engaged in texting or emailing sexual content as an adult?
11. Do you now have a substantial struggle with same sex attraction?
12. Do you now have a substantial struggle with your gender identification?
13. If you answered “Yes” to any of the above questions, please give detailed explanation, or if you have any other information you would like to provide, please state it here. Additional information?
Child Protection Questionnaire Frequently Asked Questions
Why is there a questionnaire?
The care of children in a church ministry is a privilege. This stewardship comes with responsibilities to God, to the parents, and to the church. Some personal information is important to know before commissioning people into work with children. Background checks screen out potential workers and volunteers with an existing criminal record. Because perpetrators of abuse often have no criminal record, a questionnaire adds another layer of protection to the screening process. This is especially important in ministries with children, as they are among the most vulnerable people in the church body. A questionnaire helps us to be thorough, accountable and faithful with the ministries entrusted to us. Proverbs 25:2 It is the glory of God to conceal things, but the glory of kings is to search things out.
Why are the questions so personal and probing?
These direct and personal questions are not intended to diagnose sin. These questions are an opportunity for workers, role models, and leaders in the church to examine their lives. Volunteers are asked to place themselves in a position of accountability before being entrusted with the stewardship of others. Transparency of volunteers helps overseers to maintain ministry integrity, identify volunteers’ strengths and weaknesses, and apply them to the particular areas that will build the church and maximize God’s glory. Serving in a church ministry is a privilege not a right. Only those serving with children or are in significant public roles are asked to complete this questionnaire. Anyone who feels uncomfortable answering such personal questions, in any format, may self-select out of volunteering.
Who will see my answers?
We understand that some of these questions are of a sensitive nature. Only elders have access to the questionnaire responses. Our office administrator does not see the forms once they are completed. Two elders will review the completed questionnaire. In some circumstances, they may inform the entire eldership.
What happens if I answer “yes” to any of the questions?
Answering “yes” to questions does not automatically disqualify you from serving. Context is important. We are confident in the Lord’s redeeming work of salvation, deliverance, victory over sins and transformation as new creatures in Christ (2Cor. 5:17). Two elders will review the form and, guided by the Child Protection Policy, will decide if a person is qualified, or if further inquiry, action or accommodation is necessary. When necessary, an elder will reach out to the person involved with sensitivity to their information and respect for their honesty and desire to serve. In situations that may be sensitive for women, we may seek the assistance of a female counselor.
What about the wording of some questions?
The questionnaire is a work in progress. We understand that some questions might be uncomfortable or challenging. Please remember our desire is to glorify God, support parents, and faithfully train those entrusted to our care. Please be patient as we seek to protect our children and the reputation of the gospel.
What if I have a specific concern and I would rather meet with a pastor in person about it?
If you would answer “yes” to any of the questions but prefer to speak to a pastor or a female counselor, you may indicate your preference in the first option on the questionnaire.
May God bless our efforts.
For God is not unjust so as to overlook your work and the love that you have shown for his name in serving the saints, as you still do.
— Hebrews 6:10