TUESDAY, APRIL 26, 2016
What are you going to do if somebody claims emotional or mental injury against your church?
What can happen - Claim Scenarios
A group contacts the church about renting their facility for a meeting. Because the group’s beliefs are contrary to the church’s religious beliefs and teachings, the church denies the request. The group then brings a discrimination claim against the church because of the emotional injury and distress sustained.
Recently, two longtime members of the church approached the pastor about baptizing their grandchild whose parents are of the same gender. Because the church objects to same gender marriage, the pastor denies their request.
The parents of the child then bring a discrimination claim against the church and the pastor for emotional distress suffered.
Pastoral counseling liability risk is physical or emotional injury attributable to a clergyperson's acts, errors or omissions during counseling of a spiritual nature.
Example: A couple alleges that marital counseling further injured their relationship.
One’s emotional distress can be caused by a number of factors. Therefore, it is difficult to determine how your organization can prevent every potential emotional injury liability claim.
Protecting Your Church
Religious Expression Coverage (REC)
Helps defend you against claims for mental or emotional injury arising from acts others deem discriminating.
Any trustee or official, board member, council,or vestry are insured for their duties pertaining to your House of Worship
Your volunteer workers performing duties on your behalf are insured
Generous indemnity limit up to $1 million
Affordable flat rate premium
Available additional coverage with any House of Worship insurance policy
Having the Right Church Insurance Coverage
You can not always stop someone from bringing a claim against your church but the right protection can protect your church from the financial devastation a lawsuit could cause. Make sure you have religious expression coverage, since this coverage will protect you when someone files a claim or lawsuit against you that stems from your religious views like the scenarios we highlighted. We believe this coverage addresses a growing area of concern with our church customers.
The REC is an optional endorsement that can be added to the base Commercial General Liability (CGL) Coverage form.
If you are looking for a church insurance quote or need help reviewing your policy, let us know. We are available to meet you in person, by telephone or via email.
You can give us a call at 323-571-0127 or contact us online.
Read Religious Expression Coverage flyer here
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