VIRTUS Program
The Catholic Church, the Diocese of Cleveland, and St. Joseph Church hold the protection of children as one of their highest priorities. To this end, the Diocese of Cleveland adopted a Policy for the Safety of Children in Matters of Sexual Abuse. This policy requires that education and training in the recognition and prevention of sexual abuse towards minor children be given to all Diocesan employees and to all volunteers who come in regular contact with children. This program is named VIRTUS.
Reports of suspected abuse should be made to the Public Children Services Agency (PCSA) or a municipal police department. Refer to this list of agencies to file a report.
Who Needs VIRTUS Training?
Everyone volunteering in a ministry program at St. Joseph Church that involves regular contact with minor children must complete the following VIRTUS requirements. The ministry or program leaders will let you know if VIRTUS compliance is needed.
Training Process
- Print, complete, and return the ministry's participant application form
- Obtain a State of Ohio criminal background check
- Attend a live VIRTUS training session and read follow-up bulletins
- After completing the training, a bulletin will be posted to your VIRTUS account each month for you to read
- Read the Diocesan Policy and then print, sign, and return the acknowledgement form