Protecting God's Children

SAFE ENVIRONMENTS

WHY DO I HAVE TO TAKE THE PROTECTING GOD'S CHILDREN CLASS?

It is the goal of all Catholic parishes, schools, and institutions to achieve a "SAFE ENVIRONMENT", that is, a place where all people, especially children and young adults, will be safe from any kind of abuse.  The three practical steps involved in creating a "SAFE ENVIRONMENT" are:

AWARENESS TRAINING -This is a three hour video-based presentation, with time for questions and discussion, and is entitled, "Protecting God's Children". The goal of this class is to make participants aware of who the predators are, and how they look for their victims.

BACKGROUND CHECK-Every employee and volunteer over the age of 18 will be asked to sign a consent form authorizing a criminal background check, which checks only for convictions of a felony or misdemeanor involving sexual abuse of children. This is the aspect that makes people most uncomfortable, but it is another important part of creating a safe environment. Click here to download the background check permission form.

RECEIPT AND SIGN-OFF ON DIOCESAN POLICY ON SEXUAL MISCONDUCT-This involves reading the policy and signing the last page, confirming that you have received a copy of the policy.

CODE OF CONDUCT -This involves reading the Code of Conduct and signing the last page.

 

Classes are offered on an ongoing basis at all Catholic parishes in the Diocese of Bridgeport. To register or to find a list of classes, go to www.virtus.org . If you do not have internet access, or if you have any questions, please call Doreen Morrissey at 426.1014 . If you take the class at another parish, please bring back your paperwork (signed policy, Code of Conduct, and background check authorization) along with a copy of your card that will be issued where you took the class.

Sexual Misconduct Policy

Code of Conduct

Background Check Permission Form