Creating a safe environment is a priority in the Catholic Diocese of Fort Worth. The Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, established by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, requires our diocese to establish a “safe environment program” and gives the necessary elements of this program. The training sessions for preschoolers through adults offer instruction in self-protection and the protection of children, youth and vulnerable adults.
In the words of Bishop Olson, “We share a great responsibility to understand the nature of abuse and the steps we must take to establish and maintain safe, holy and faith-affirming environments. The requirement for in-depth renewal is designed to safeguard children and young people and to protect all members of the diocesan community in parishes, schools and ministries.”
For Adults
All clergy, religious men and women, lay employees, and adult volunteers serving in any capacity affiliated with Sacred Heart Catholic Parish or School MUST have Safe Environment training beforehand, whether or not you will be in direct contact with children. Safe Environment Training must be renewed every two years and the following is required for certification.
- Satisfactorily pass a criminal background check at the beginning of their service and as required thereafter; and,
- Satisfactorily complete training regarding the safe environment policy, procedures and practices at the beginning of service and as required thereafter; and,
- Provide consent stating you will abide by the Code of Conduct and Behavior Standards for All Clergy, Religious and Lay Ministers for as long as they remain in service to the Diocese.
For Minors
A children’s version of Safe Environment Training is required for all youth participating in children’s ministries including altar servers, children’s choir members, Vacation Bible School volunteers or any other children’s ministry. The training program for minors includes the completion of a brief workbook with parents.
Reporting Procedures
If you suspect abuse of a child, or elder or vulnerable adult, or abuse has been disclosed to you, please do the following. Call CPS, at 800-252-5400; get a case number or copy of the report. Call the Police or 911; get a case number or copy of the report.
Report the alleged abuse to your supervisor, Priest or Principal (who will report to the diocese) with a copy of the CPS report made or written report with contact information on all concerned, a description of the abuse, dates if known and how you learned of the abuse.
In the case of alleged abuse by clergy or Church personnel, contact a diocesan authority directly.
Questions
Each parish and school has a dedicated Safe Environment Coordinator who assists clergy, staff and volunteers with program registration, training delivery and re-certification. For questions or more information, please contact our SH Safe Environment Coordinator at 940.759.2500 (Ext. 1) or email safeenvironment@shcmuenster.com