In 2016, I began volunteering in the Catholic church and was required to complete a course in "Protecting Children in the 21st Century." Last week, I took the course again and was tested on the content -- the certificate for completing the course being valid for three years.
The Diocese through which I took the course states, "Everyone who works with young people and/or vulnerable adults shares the responsibility of creating safe environments. We are all charged with treating life with the respect and dignity given to each of us by our God." I agree with that! All Catholic church staff, clergy and volunteers who work directly with children must register with the Diocese and complete the diocesan safe environment training program every three years. Included in the process is a background check. The Diocese evaluates the criminal history background of all diocesan, school and parish employees, as well as volunteers who have regular contact with minors. Specifically, they utilize the resources of law enforcement and other community agencies. The Diocese makes clear to clergy and members of the community the standards of conduct for clergy and other persons in positions of trust with regard to abuse.
By completing the training and volunteering, I am committing to a code of conduct which includes such things as: safeguarding children and youth entrusted to my care at all times; treating everyone with respect, patience, integrity, courtesy, dignity, and consideration; avoiding situations where I am alone with a child or youth at church/school activities; avoiding all unnecessary physical contact, especially when alone with a minor; and more. Having taken the course twice in the past three years, I can tell you that I am very impressed with the content and the fact that the Catholic church conducts a thorough background check. There is a specific sexual abuse protocol in place and, of course, a mandate under state law to report any suspected abuse.
In my opinion, through the mandatory training the Catholic church is showing that it is dedicated to ensuring an environment that is safe, open, welcoming and protective of all people -- especially children.
From Him, Through Him, For Him (Romans 11:36),
Paul J. Staso
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Visit my YouTube channel -- https://www.youtube.com/user/pacetrek
Click on any of the links below to see some of my adventure photos:
- United States in 2006 (3,260 miles solo in 108 days at age 41)
- Montana in 2008 (620 miles solo in 20 days at age 43)
- Alaska in 2009 (500 miles solo in 18 days at age 44)
- Germany in 2010 (500 miles solo in 21 days at age 45)
- The Mojave Desert in 2011 (506 miles solo in 17 days at age 46)
- Various Photos From Mileposts Gone By
- Students Worldwide Who Ran With Me Virtually
- Roadside Sights From My Running Adventures
- Some Cycling Moments From The Past
