Public trust in church leadership has reached an all-time low, and the latest research reveals a disturbing reality: churches facing public scandals consistently fail in three key areas—transparency, accountability, and protective measures.

The Building Safer Churches research study analyzed 100 churches that experienced public scandals in the last decade, uncovering a pervasive lack of governance structures that could have prevented many of these crises.

These findings are a wake-up call for pastors, church leaders, and parishioners alike. The study not only highlights the problem but also provides practical steps for churches to implement real change. If we fail to act, scandals will continue to harm ministries and people, erode trust, and hinder the spread of the gospel.

🔎 Read the full white paper and see where your church stands. Then, take action by committing to the Safe Church Pledge—because accountability isn’t just a legal issue; it’s a biblical mandate. Together, we can stop the seemingly endless stream of church scandals and begin rebuilding trust in the church with the world we are called to reach.