St. David the King Parish, in full compliance with the Diocese of Trenton’s policies and the United States Bishops’ Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, is dedicated to ensuring a safe environment for all children and young people in our care. We are committed to fostering a community where the safety and well-being of minors are prioritized, and to upholding the protocols for reporting and investigating allegations of abuse.
To maintain these standards, and in accordance with diocesan guidelines, all adults who work or volunteer in ministries involving regular contact with minors are required to undergo a criminal background check through fingerprinting, as mandated by the Diocese of Trenton. Additionally, they must complete the VIRTUS Awareness Training Program. This three-hour training session addresses the scope and impact of child sexual abuse and equips participants with the knowledge and tools to protect children effectively.
Criminal background check forms can be obtained by contacting the parish Safe Environment Coordinator. Registration for the VIRTUS Awareness Training Program must be completed online.
All children enrolled in our religious education program will participate in the Loyola Press “Growing with God” Safe and Sacred Series, a diocesan-mandated safe environment curriculum designed to educate and protect minors.
Our parish is committed to creating a safe, nurturing space for all, in which children, families, and all members of the community can grow in faith with confidence and security.
Links
Safe Environment & Standards of Conduct Policy (ecatholic.com)
Protection of Children and Young People | USCCB
VIRTUS
At St. David the King, all staff members and catechist volunteers are VIRTUS-trained to ensure the safety and well-being of the children and young people entrusted to our care.
What is VIRTUS?
VIRTUS is the Protecting God’s Children Program, a comprehensive 3-4 hour training session designed to educate adults on recognizing the warning signs of child sexual abuse, as well as the appropriate steps to take if they suspect a child is being victimized. The program empowers individuals with the knowledge and tools to protect children from harm, both within the Church community and beyond.
The Child and Youth Protection Unit of the Diocese of Trenton collaborates with parishes and schools to ensure that all employees and volunteers who have regular, consistent contact with children complete this important training, along with the necessary criminal background checks. VIRTUS training equips our staff and volunteers with essential safety skills, which extend to all aspects of their lives.
The Protection Unit also supports parishes and schools in scheduling and implementing VIRTUS training programs, helping to maintain a safe environment for all members of our faith community. At St. David the King, we are committed to creating a secure and nurturing space where children and families can grow in faith with confidence.