Misconduct

Reporting, Resources, and Support

Pastoral misconduct is devastating for victims and congregations. That is why Indiana-Michigan Mennonite Conference is committed to providing a safe avenue for persons directly affected by pastoral misconduct to report it. Once the initial misconduct report has been received, an experienced, trained individual will listen to you, provide helpful resources, and walk with you through the initial part of the process.

Conversations are confidential!

If you need to report misconduct you may get in touch with one of the conference contact persons:

  • Leon Bauman, baumanl57@gmail.com. Leon is a school counselor and currently works at Bethany Christian Schools.
  • Shin Yee Tan, shinyeetan@gmail.com. Shin Yee is a clinical social worker who works with children and families, particularly those who have experienced trauma.
  • Linda Lehman Thomas, lindalehmanthomas@gmail.com. Linda is a certified spiritual director and has been trained to work with persons who have experienced trauma.

Calls made directly to the conference office at 574-534-4006 will help connect you to a contact person.

Other Resources

Sexual Misconduct Packet – This Mennonite Church USA packet deals with process and prevention of sexual misconduct by credentialed persons within congregations.

Doves Nest – This website offers resources to congregations for keeping children and youth safe from child abuse in the congregation.

Abuse Prevention – Resources from Mennonite Central Committee (MCC).

 

“Abuse: Response and Prevention” booklet – MCC booklet that addresses this issue.