The Episcopal Diocese of Central Florida has received information regarding the arrest of a parish youth worker who Florda Department of Law Enforcement investigators say had child pornography on a home computer.
St. Gabriel’s Episcopal Church, Titusville, immediately terminated its employment of the youth worker, Lucas Brandenburg, and prohibited him from being on church property or having contact with any children.
Before his employment at St. Gabriel’s, Brandenburg had fulfilled the Episcopal Diocese of Central Florida’s required Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse certificate program, called Safeguarding God’s Children. Completion of the program is mandatory for all workers — paid or volunteer — who have contact with youth at diocesan organizations.
“As Christians, a core tenet of our church is the protection and promotion of the dignity and care of all people, especially children and others who may be the most vulnerable and in need of special care,” said the Right Reverend Gregory O. Brewer, diocesan bishop. “Our hearts go out to everyone involved in this matter.”
For guidelines on ways to keep children safe online, the FDLE recommends www.secureflorida.org/staying_safe/best_practices_for_parents/ .
