In recognition of the spiritual and public trust given to this faith community, St. Mark's Lutheran Church in San Francisco, CA is committed to being a true sanctuary, both nurturing and protecting its members and visitors. Worship of God requires openness, trust, intimacy, vulnerability and a safe, supportive community. Abuse and harassment are, therefore, violations of the faith shared by this congregation. Accordingly, the congregation will maintain official policies and procedures with the goal of preventing any instances of abuse, intervening appropriately into alleged incidents of abusive behavior, and caring for all involved. These procedures will be reviewed and amended as necessary by the Church Council to correspond to changes in civil law and the congregation community.

Safe Congregations Policy (revised as of 2009)