SAFE ENVIRONMENTS  Third in a series of articles

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Last week, we considered the changes in our thinking that we must all make in order to pave the way for the practical steps in creating a Safe Environment. We'll begin today to take a look at the three practical steps involved: Awareness Training, Diocesan Policy and Background Checks.

Please note that, although some dioceses in the United States have chosen to do so, the Diocese of Bridgeport is NOT requiring the fingerprinting of employees or volunteers.

First Step: Awareness Training

Awareness Training is the first and probably most important part of the Safe Environment Effort. This video-based presentation, with time for commentary and discussion, lasts a total of just three to four hours and is entitled "Protecting God's Children.': The first tape, "A Time to Protect God's Children," will help us to understand who the predators are and how they operate in finding potential victims. The second video, "A Plan to Protect God's Children," will teach us what to look for and how to be aware of Safe Environment measures. At the conclusion of the training, a card will be issued to each participant certifying the successful completion of the training session.

This Awareness Training program is produced and provided by Virtus - a leading national firm contracted by the Diocese to carry out this component. We are very fortunate to have Deacon Lance Fredricks serving as one of the facilitators for this training. The great benefit to us is that we don't have to go any farther than our own Saint Luke Community Room to participate in this program! Some individuals, especially employees and school personnel, are also chosen for further training via articles published on the Virtus website.

Several dates have been scheduled at Saint Luke Parish; some are "Closed" sessions, meaning that they are available ONLY to Saint Luke Parishioners; other sessions are open to anyone who registers; Saint Luke Parishioners may register for "Open Session" training at another site and time if more convenient for them. 

Registration is by way of the Internet; we will help to accommodate those who do not have a computer or Internet access by providing Internet access through the Religious Formation 0ffice. .You can get more information on the registration process by logging onto our website www.stlukewestport.com and going to the "Weekly Bulletin" page. At the bottom of that page, under "Bulletin Inserts," you'll find a link to the registration info which was provided in a letter included with our bulletin a few weeks ago.

Next week: Background Checks