The Archdiocese of Cincinnati uses the SafeParish program as the nexus of its child protection program. Called Protecting God’s Children, the program strives to build on what we already know about child abuse: teaching effective and safe boundaries, how to spot predators who masquerade as people doing good in the community, and how to prevent situations where children are exposed to danger. The presentation is 3 hours long, consisting of two 30 minute videos which feature victims of child sexual abuse, their families, as well as two convicted child predators. Workbook activities and group discussions round out each session, and there is a monthly online follow up requirement.
FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)
Who has to attend a SafeParish session?
Any and all volunteers in a parish or school. There are no exceptions.
I have already attended a child protection class at my parish/school. Do I need to attend a SafeParish session?
Yes. The Archdiocese has determined that all clergy, paid staff, and volunteers need to attend a SafeParish session, even if you have previously attended the old child protection program. As of July 1, 2014, no individual may work with or volunteer with children under 18 unless they attend a SafeParish session.
What about the ongoing, online follow-ups I have heard about?
There are short quarterly online bulletins that need to be completed.
**IN ORDER TO REMAIN COMPLIANT WITH THE CHILD PROTECTION DECREE,YOU MUST REMAIN CURRENT WITH YOUR QUARTERLY BULLETINS.** IF YOU FALL ONE BULLETIN BEHIND, YOU MUST RE-TAKE THE CLASS (Archdiocesan policy).
How do I sign up?
Go online to the SafeParish Site to register. Click HERE for registration instructions. Please make sure that you complete your background check. If for some reason you didn’t, click HERE for background check instructions.
Do I have to get fingerprinted again?
Fingerprints are not required unless you are staff or clergy, however all those working or volunteering must complete the online background check on the selection.com section on the SafeParish website. There is a $25.00 charge for the background check. Please email Kathy Rothschild at kathy.rothschild@stvivian.org if you need to check your fingerprinting date.
Click HERE for more SafeParish Frequently Asked Questions.
