Protecting God's Children is a mandatory training program for all adult Church and School volunteers who work with minors. "Working with minors" is defined as having direct, usual or frequent contact, or whose duties permit them to come into physical contact with minors. It is a program concerning sexual abuse, the means for creating a safe environment for children, and how to respond to a suspected case of child abuse. New employees and volunteers must complete the Protecting God's Children program within one month of commencing service. Parishioners, parents and other interested persons are also welcome to attend these sessions. The following must be done for all adult volunteers and employees who have direct contact with children:

1. Complete an application, which is kept on file.

2. Have a signed Code of Conduct on file.

3. Have a background check done: sign the Disclosure and Authorization form to authorize the screening. (Cost is $6.50) A letter is sent to indicate the individual passed the screening.

4. Protecting God's Children certificate is issued and kept on file in St. Brendan School.

The list of Protecting God's Children workshops can be found on the diocesan web page: www.rcdop.org