All individuals working for and volunteering at the church or school (including church ministries) must complete a one-time Protecting God's Children course.

The national sexual-abuse prevention program "Protecting God's Children" provides free training to parishes, schools, and archdiocesan agencies to ensure a safe environment for our children. Developed by National Catholic Services, "Protecting God's Children" is a comprehensive program that includes two video presentations that incorporate stories from victims of sexual abuse and their families, who speak about the impact that the abuse has had on them. In addition, the videos feature testimony from perpetrators of child abuse, who tell how they selected their victims and how they made the victims feel that the abuse was their own fault. The program also provides information on how to prevent situations that can lead to abuse, on what behaviors should raise concern about abuse, and on how to report abuse.

 

Who Should Attend

If you are a member of the clergy, a diocesan employee (staff and participants in our Mass ministries), or a volunteer who has contact with children and youth, you are required to attend this one-time program. All volunteers at Sacred Heart School are required to participate prior to any volunteering, including attending school field trips.

 

Upcoming Workshops:

Contact the church office at (217) 347-7177 for information on upcoming workshops. For a full listing of upcoming workshops in our Diocese, visit the Diocese's Upcoming Training Class Schedule.