Safe Environment

The Safe Environment Program was established by the Archdiocese of St. Louis to ensure the safety of minors and vulnerable adults. The purpose of this Safe Environment Program Policy is to address the prevention of sexual abuse within the Archdiocese through education and screening. It also provides a framework for the Archdiocese to work collaboratively with parents, civil authorities, educators, and community organizations to maintain a safe environment for children, youth, and vulnerable adults. The Policy applies to all priests, seminarians, religious, employees, and volunteers of the Archdiocese.

The archdiocese’s Safe Environment Program requires all clergy and adult employees and volunteers who work with or near minors and/or vulnerable adults to attend a Protecting God’s Children workshop and complete online training updates every three years; read and sign the archdiocese’s Code of Ethical Conduct for Clergy, Employees, and Volunteers Working in Ministry; and complete a national criminal record check and agree to regular screening updates. The Protecting God’s Children program, developed by VIRTUS® and used by dioceses throughout the country, educates participants to identify the signs of child sexual abuse, understand the methods and means by which offenders commit abuse, and be aware of the steps that can be taken to prevent ongoing or future abuse.