When I teach churches to train guides about confidentiality, I tell them to tell their kids:
"We have only two rules in our small group:
Rule 1. EVERYTHING we share in this group is COMPLETELY confidential.
There is only one exception to this rule.
Rule 2. Nothing said in this room will leave this room UNLESS I, the adult, believe that someone is in trouble. If I feel in my best judgment that someone is being or about to be hurt, I would be a lousy friend if I didn't do everything in my power to get them help. Furthermore, I am not only morally responsible to get them out of danger, I am also legally responsible (in most states) if I'm working with kids.
So, my young friends, I'm going to be on your side! I'm going to listen and advise. I'm going to counsel and give my best, most honest judgment when asked. From this moment on, what goes on in this small group stays in this small group. You have my word. A the same time, you must know that I will never, never, never keep silent and let you or your friends get hurt (or hurt yourself) if I can help it. Christians are supposed to be part of the solution in this hurting world, and staying silent when a friend is in trouble would make me part of the problem. Don't tell me about a dangerous situation unless you actually want help and healing, because I am bound by my conscience and Christ's call to be a TRUE friend... and a true friend doesn't leave friends in trouble. I will get help. You have my word."
Comments