Last week, attorney Richard Hammar gave me a sneak peek of tomorrow’s free webinar updating church leaders on recent trends tied to child abuse. As we glanced over the slides detailing multimillion-dollar jury verdict awards for victims, legislative efforts to extend the statutes of limitation for legal claims, and evolving interpretations of the clergy-penitent privilege, Rich told me this event will offer the most up-to-date—and practical—information any leader will get this year on the top legal issue churches face. Missing it, he added, will cost a leader a valuable chance to get ahead of this significant problem.

Let that sink in.

While in-person gatherings, events, and activities involving children and youth may be limited or even nonexistent right now due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the threat abuse poses to churches remains as real—and dangerous—as ever. Factor in the expanded ways churches are doing ministry digitally, and the vulnerabilities created through those efforts, and the risks for improper and abusive conduct are all the more real.

Don’t let this opportunity to learn and act pass by. Register now for tomorrow’s free webinar.

Also this week:

• In case you missed it, the IRS recently issued a notice substantially changing certain procedures used for group tax exemption.
• ADVANTAGE MEMBERS: Watch our panel discussion with an attorney, a CPA, and a PhD-prepared nurse on the legal and risk management issues tied to reopening your church building.
• Our friends with the Lake Institute on Faith & Giving are surveying congregations nationwide about the unique ways COVID-19 is affecting congregations, particularly with offerings. Please take a moment to complete this survey, the results of which we’ll publish and use to help leaders like you.

The Lord bless you and keep you,