PROTECTING GOD'S CHILDREN

Contacts

St. Bernard Church
Jun Ballada: (213) 236-4829
Rocio R. Gonzalez: (323) 256-6242

Archdiocese of Los Angeles
Protection of Children

VIRTUS training

VIRTUS training in the San Fernando Pastoral Region
Upcoming sessions, and registration [search for "Los Angeles - San Fernarndo Region (Archdiocese)"]

Safeguard the Children

The Archdiocese of Los Angeles Office of Safeguard the Children provides ongoing support, education, training and resources to help prevent child sexual abuse and to address children's safety in our parishes, schools, homes and communities.

If you believe that you, or someone you know, is a victim of sexual abuse by a church employee or volunteer, contact the Archdiocesan Victims Assistance Coordinator at (213) 637-7650 for help and support.

About Safeguard the Children

Safeguard the Children is a comprehensive program designed to promote a safe environment for children, youth and vulnerable adults and prevent child sexual abuse. The program was initiated in all dioceses in the United States at the direction of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB).

There is a Safeguard the Children Committee in each parish which helps to implement the objectives of the USCCB's Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, published in 2002.

To make effective the goals of a safe environment within the church for children and young people and prevent abuse of minors, the members of the USCCB have outlined in this charter a series of practical and pastoral steps.

VIRTUS Protecting God's Children Adult Awareness sessions

VIRTUS Protecting God's Children Adult Awareness sessions are a three-hour training that helps clergy, staff, volunteers and parents to understand the facts and myths about child sexual abuse; how perpetrators operate; and how caring adults can take five important steps to keep children safe.

The parent session also stresses monitoring of computers, cell phones and other technology that perpetrators use to gain access to children and young people.

VIRTUS training sessions for St. Bernard parishioners are promoted and organized by St. Bernard's Safeguard the Children ministry.