In accordance with the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, the Diocese of Joliet has instituted a Virtus education program called Protecting God’s Children. This program helps to ensure that we are providing a safe environment for our children. Any person (over the age of 18) that plans to volunteer in any capacity throughout the year is required to attend a Protecting God’s Children training session and complete the necessary paperwork, which includes a Background Check, BEFORE being permitted to volunteer.
For example, this would include but is not limited to the following volunteer opportunities:
- Room Parents
- Field Trip Chaperones
- Classroom Helpers
- Athletics Volunteers
- School Musical
- Office Helpers
- HSA Members
- Religious Education Catechists
- Rainbows
- Liturgy of the Word for Children
- Boy Scouts/Cub Scouts
- Girl Scouts
- Youth Ministry
Please see the link below for a complete listing of all Protecting God’s Children sessions being offered throughout the Diocese of Joliet.
To obtain the necessary paperwork or if you have any questions about the program, please contact Deacon Bob Miciunas at the Parish Center (630)960-3565, ext. 244.
- Diocese of Joliet Standards of Behavior to Safeguard Against Child Abuse (revised 2014)
- Diocese of Joliet Policy Regarding Sexual Abuse of Minors (revised 2013)
- Schedule for Virtus Protecting God’s Children Workshop
Reporting Incidents of Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse is a sin and a crime. Victims of sexual abuse, in addition to contacting civil authorities, are asked to come forward in order to receive pastoral assistance. The Church has a responsibility to help victims of sexual abuse and to ensure that offenders are brought to justice. Reports may be made to any pastor or to Mrs. Judith Speckman at (815) 263-6467. Contact DCFS at 1-800-25-ABUSE.