All efforts and programs in the Archdiocese of Milwaukee that relate to protecting God’s children and creating a safe environment come under the umbrella of Safeguarding All of God’s Family.

As a faith-filled people, we respect and value each and every individual, as we are created in
the image and likeness of God. This is why the Safeguarding All of God’s Family program
has been established. The Archdiocese of Milwaukee is committed to creating a safe
environment where all of God’s family – children, their parents and relatives, parish and
school personnel, volunteers, clergy and archdiocesan central office personnel − will be able
to work, live, and play in an environment where healthy and responsible relationships
prevail.

Who needs to participate in this program?

The Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People requires that dioceses/eparchies establish “safe environment” programs. Article 12 of the Charter states:

“Dioceses/eparchies will establish “safe environment” programs. They will cooperate with parents, civil authorities, educators and community organizations to provide education and training for children, youth, parents, ministers, educators and others about ways to make and maintain a safe environment for children. Dioceses/eparchies will make clear to clergy and members of the community the standards of conduct for clergy and other persons in positions of trust with regard to sexual abuse.”

Our children are precious, and all adults need to better understand the injustice of sexual abuse in society. There is a need for creating a greater awareness about this problem. Safeguarding All of God’s Family is the program of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee dedicated to creating awareness and understanding of abuse of children and youth.

And, as part of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee Safeguarding All of God's Family program, schools and religious education programs are called on to provide age-appropriate abuse prevention education in all classrooms to teach children to recognize, resist and report abuse. It is expected that in each classroom, every year, there will be at least one presentation documented to assist children in acquiring and enhancing skills to prevent abuse.

We are committed to continuing this initiative by requesting the following:

1. That all adults, ages 18 or over, who participate in our program as catechist, office help, general volunteer, chaperone, or other position in our Religious Education Program are required to participate in Virtus/Safeguarding all God's Family training. This is a one-time class.

2. In addition, it is required that these same adults have a background check, both for the State of Wisconsin and nationally. This check is to be repeated every five years per volunteer/staff member as needed.

3. Each adult will need to fill out appropriate paperwork for the position he/she is applying for so that contact information is current.

For more information contact the Religious Ed Office at (414) 321-8922.