Workplace issues often ignore the line between sacred and secular

Ministries should keep an eye on trending topics, such as discrimination, harassment, social engineering, mental health, and misuse of prescription drugs.

Download this free issue of The Deacon’s Bench for tips on strengthening your workplace policies and procedures.

FEATURED CONTENT

Don’t Be Shadowed by Discrimination
Smart policies deal with discriminatory hiring practices as well as workplace retaliation. Christian ministries can face the same issues found in secular business. How they handle the issues is what should set them apart.

Stop the Phisherman
Today’s scammers are much more sophisticated than the ones who created the “Nigerian prince” email scams of the ‘90s. While the techniques may have changed, the goal is the same—to separate your ministry from its financial resources.

Shine a Spotlight on Mental Health
Many employers feel unsure about how to approach mental health issues. There’s good news: as a ministry employer, you have opportunity to help struggling staff members without breaching medical privacy laws.

Make Your Harassment Policy Transparent
Harassment policies should clearly outline your organization’s goals for promoting a safe and welcoming workplace. A clear plan and guiding documents help set appropriate procedures to safeguard the organization and its employees.

Analyze Your Code of Conduct
Ministries use personal conduct policies to state their lifestyle expectations for employees. Basing these policies on a ministry's sincere religious beliefs may help provide First Amendment protection against legal challenges.