VIRTUS

Through the Creating and Maintaining Safe Environment Policy, the Archdiocese of Miami is keeping the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ promise to protect children.  It is a responsibility taken seriously as it speaks directly to the protection of children placed in our care, whether at our schools, parishes, or healthcare facilities.  To this end, all employees and all volunteers must successfully pass a background check, be Virtus trained, and sign a Pledge to Promote Safe Environment.

This, of course, includes chaperones even if the spouse of an employee.  It doesn’t matter if it is someone attending every field trip or someone spending one evening, perhaps at the prom, with children.  Everyone with access to children must comply:
clergy, employee, volunteers, even chaperones at dances and their spouses.  It is not about the trust of the chaperone, it is about protecting children.

All Personnel, including applicants offered a position, independent contractors and volunteers working with Vulnerable Persons are required to successfully complete safe environment training through the Virtus program. For new Church Personnel, Virtus training must be completed within 45 days of hire.