Overview

We are committed to the safety of children and young people who have been entrusted to our care. In compliance with the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston�s safe environment program we:

• Screen all Church ministers, employees and volunteers age 16 and above who work with children and young people as part of their ministry.

• Provide appropriate training in recognizing and reporting child abuse to appropriate civil and Church authorities.

• Hold all Church ministers, employees and volunteers who work with children and young people to Christ-centered and professional codes of conduct.

The VIRTUS Protecting God�s Children Workshop for Adults is a 3-hour session including 2 videos and facilitated discussions focusing on the prevention of abuse and the protection of children. Participants learn how to recognize the signs and symptoms that an adult is a potential risk of harm to children and how to know that a child is being abused or exploited in some way. In addition, they will learn about steps that the faith community can take to create a safe environment for all God�s children and how to respond when adults behave in a way that raises concerns. Paperwork completed at this workshop includes a volunteer application, a background check authorization, and a code of conduct. Online registration at the VIRTUS website is required prior to attendance.

We also encourage all of our parents and volunteers to visit the VIRTUS website regularly where you will find many excellent articles and information.

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1. Attend a VIRTUS "Protecting God's Children for Adults" workshop.  Workshops are offered at St. Michael's approx. three times per year and are advertised in the bulletin a month prior to each workshop.

2. Select a workshop to attend - go HERE.

3. Attend the workshop.  Be sure to do the following:

• Sign In (this is mandatory to be qualified

• Minors between the ages of 16 and 18 must turn in a signed Parental Consent Form

• Receive packet of information & forms

• You must attend the entire workshop.  Workshops begin promptly at the scheduled time.

• You may not leave during the workshop nor before it is completed to receive credit for workshop attendance.

• NO EXCEPTIONS

4. At the end of the workshop, all forms must be completed and turned in.  All forms will be treated in full & complete confidence.

5. Upon successful completion of the background check, application review, and documented workshop attendance, the parish will be notified of the qualification of the adult.

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Printing Proof of Attendance and Compliance

1. Log into VIRTUS Online at www.virtus.org and enter your USER ID and PASSWORD. (This can be sent to you via email if you forgot your password by choosing the forgot password link directly below the login)
2. Select the TRAINING tab
3. On the left side of the screen, select TRAINING COMPLIANCE
4. Select the TRAINING REPORT link
5. PRINT the page that opens as your proof of attendance and compliance