Public Statement from Riverdale Assembly of God
Riverdale Assembly of God is committed to maintaining a safe, accountable, and welcoming environment for families, children, and all members of the congregation throughout the community and the greater Central Valley. Through prayerful discernment and deliberate action, the church has undertaken purposeful steps to strengthen leadership, governance, and oversight in order to serve responsibly and with integrity.
Following a duly held vote in which 84 members participated, the congregation has enacted and approved updated governing bylaws. In addition, voting members have elected a Board of Deacons to provide leadership support, accountability, and stewardship. These actions are intended to establish clear organizational structure, promote financial transparency, and support the ongoing health and stability of the church.
As part of this commitment, Riverdale Assembly of God has partnered with MinistrySafe, a nationally recognized organization specializing in sexual abuse prevention within ministry contexts, to provide comprehensive sexual abuse awareness training for all staff and volunteers. This training equips individuals to recognize grooming behaviors, understand the characteristics of potential abusers, and respond appropriately to concerns. Training is renewed every two years, and staff and volunteers are required to report any policy violations immediately to leadership. By utilizing MinistrySafe’s expertise, the church ensures that its prevention efforts meet the highest standards of accountability and best practices.
To further safeguard children’s ministries, all new staff and volunteers will undergo a thorough screening process that includes a formal application, face-to-face interviews, and reference checks. Volunteers are also required to attend Riverdale Assembly of God for at least six months before serving in roles involving children, ensuring familiarity with the church’s values and expectations.
Additionally, criminal background checks are conducted for all staff and volunteers working with children. The level of screening varies based on ministry position, providing appropriate safeguards for every role and reinforcing the church’s commitment to safety and accountability.
Riverdale Assembly of God is guided by a vision to provide hope, healing, and inspiration to the community it serves. The church seeks to cultivate an environment that supports spiritual growth, encouragement, and renewal for individuals and families.
Above all, Riverdale Assembly of God remains committed to its mission of reaching people with the message of hope found in Jesus Christ and serving as a beacon of faith, compassion, and light within the community and throughout the Central Valley.
As Scripture reminds us:
“The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to release the oppressed.” — Luke 4:18
This statement is issued to communicate the church’s intentions, governance actions, and commitment to responsible leadership, community care, and its faith-based mission. Riverdale Assembly of God recognizes the importance of accountability and diligence as it carries out its purpose and responsibilities.
Following a duly held vote in which 84 members participated, the congregation has enacted and approved updated governing bylaws. In addition, voting members have elected a Board of Deacons to provide leadership support, accountability, and stewardship. These actions are intended to establish clear organizational structure, promote financial transparency, and support the ongoing health and stability of the church.
As part of this commitment, Riverdale Assembly of God has partnered with MinistrySafe, a nationally recognized organization specializing in sexual abuse prevention within ministry contexts, to provide comprehensive sexual abuse awareness training for all staff and volunteers. This training equips individuals to recognize grooming behaviors, understand the characteristics of potential abusers, and respond appropriately to concerns. Training is renewed every two years, and staff and volunteers are required to report any policy violations immediately to leadership. By utilizing MinistrySafe’s expertise, the church ensures that its prevention efforts meet the highest standards of accountability and best practices.
To further safeguard children’s ministries, all new staff and volunteers will undergo a thorough screening process that includes a formal application, face-to-face interviews, and reference checks. Volunteers are also required to attend Riverdale Assembly of God for at least six months before serving in roles involving children, ensuring familiarity with the church’s values and expectations.
Additionally, criminal background checks are conducted for all staff and volunteers working with children. The level of screening varies based on ministry position, providing appropriate safeguards for every role and reinforcing the church’s commitment to safety and accountability.
Riverdale Assembly of God is guided by a vision to provide hope, healing, and inspiration to the community it serves. The church seeks to cultivate an environment that supports spiritual growth, encouragement, and renewal for individuals and families.
Above all, Riverdale Assembly of God remains committed to its mission of reaching people with the message of hope found in Jesus Christ and serving as a beacon of faith, compassion, and light within the community and throughout the Central Valley.
As Scripture reminds us:
“The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to release the oppressed.” — Luke 4:18
This statement is issued to communicate the church’s intentions, governance actions, and commitment to responsible leadership, community care, and its faith-based mission. Riverdale Assembly of God recognizes the importance of accountability and diligence as it carries out its purpose and responsibilities.
