The staff and volunteers of the Heart of Jesus Area Faith Community are committed to providing a safe environment for all and especially the youth and elderly. If you have any questions on our safe environment policies, you can contact Sara Anderson, our Local Safe Environment Coordinator. Below is a summary of our procedures, links for new volunteers, and additional resources for parents and volunteers.
Summary of Our Safe Environment Protocols:
In accord with the USCCB's Charter all priests and deacons, diocesan staff, parish and Catholic school employees, as well as volunteers having regular or unsupervised interaction with minors within parishes and Catholic schools, are mandated to meet safe environment requirements.
These include:
- Submission to a criminal background check
- Adherence to a Code of Conduct & Diocese of New Ulm Policy 13: Sexual Misconduct
- Participation in sexual abuse awareness and prevention training (VIRTUS). In addition to the initial class/training volunteers and employees are required to complete continued education through the VIRTUS
New Employees or Volunteers
Thank you for your service to the Heart of Jesus Area Faith Community. We are happy that you have recognized God's call and that we will have the honor of serving along side you. The steps to complete your Safe Environment requirements have been spelled out here. If you have any questions at any time during the process please contact Sara Anderson, Local Safe Environment Coordinator.
Parent Resources
This booklet is the primary resource to parents provided through the new Protecting God's Children program for parents. The booklet is designed to help parents have frank and effective conversations with their children about the dangers of child sexual abuse and to help parents educate their children about the warning signs of abuse, and to help parents to better evaluate the safety of those who interact with their children.
Teaching Boundaries and Safety Guide
Helpful Links
There will be more information in the near future!