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• “I will always be there for you.”
• “I will be like your…. (dad, mom, sister, etc….).”
• “I’m totally certain that our pastors will meet with you.”
• “Our church will support you financially until you get back on your feet.”

43.  Avoid any improper physical contact.

54.  Be very conscience of setting realistic expectations. In general, you should avoid promising unconditional confidentiality because you may not be able to guarantee it. If you have any questions regarding this, it may be good to consult your local pastor.     

65.  GCM encourages each church or ministry to have written guidelines and standards to be used in meeting with members of the opposite gender.

76.  Avoid spiritual care sessions with minors that is out of anyone else's sight and alone. It is best to conduct the session in a public setting (like a coffee shop), in a space with a window that looks into the room, or on a pew/seat in the church out of the hearing of anyone else. The meeting may require the presence of another staff person or trusted church member during the session.

87.  Have a referral network of licensed professional counselors in our area.

98.  Each church, ministry and staff member should be aware of the Duty To Report requirements of their particular state. For example, if a person intends to hurt themselves or someone else or if there are elderly or children in danger there could be a responsibility of the missionary to report this to an appropriate agency.  You should not assume a church or clergy exception without prior, written verification.

109.  Here are some examples of dealing with someone with conditions where caution is recommended. (NOTE: This list is not meant to be exhaustive).

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