It is the policy of the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend that all diocesan priests, deacons, and other personnel, lay and religious, paid and volunteer, must adhere to the Code of Conduct when Interacting with a Minor. All must report any suspected incident of the physical, mental, or sexual abuse or neglect of a child or young person to appropriate civil and diocesan authorities consistent with the Policy on Reporting Incidents of Child Abuse or Neglect. All priests, deacons, and other personnel, employee, and volunteer, are subject to and obligated by this policy.
If you would like to serve as a catechist, parent chaperone, or volunteer for Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, Children's Liturgy of the Word, Vacation Bible School, Religious Education, Youth Ministry, or any other designated programs in the parish or school working with children, you must complete the safe environment training program before you begin your responsibilities.
Adult Volunteers
Adult volunteers (age 18 and over) must begin their safe environment training by completing the INITIAL Priest, Employee, or Volunteer Training Module at the Catholic Mutual Group website, CMG Connect. The parish Safe Environment Coordinator will provide new applicants with information as to how to access the site, register themselves, and begin training.
Youth Volunteers
Youth volunteers (under age 18) must complete the commitment and authorization form accompanying the Code of Conduct for Youth Working with Younger Children. Parents of the young person must sign this form. This two-page form replaces all previous training requirements for youth volunteers. Youth should not attempt to create an account with CMG Connect.
All Volunteers
All volunteers who will have regular contact with children and young people as part of their volunteer duties will undergo criminal background evaluations before they begin their responsibilities.
Please contact Jennifer (Safe Environment Coordinator) in the parish office before completing any forms or signing up for training. Thank you for your commitment to the protection of our children and young people!
“Our concern for the dignity of every human being as God's cherished child directs our care to victims of every injury: prejudice, famine, warfare, ignorance, infidelity, abuse, natural calamity….” —Constitutions of the Congregation of Holy Cross (2.15)
