Safeguard the Children

The Safeguard the Children program was initiated in all dioceses in the United States at the direction of United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). In 2002 Cardinal Roger Mahoney mandated the formation of a Safeguard the Children Parish Committee in all parishes and schools in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles to fulfill the objectives of the USCCB “Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People” and implement the Archdiocesan safe environment programs, policies and procedures.

The Safeguard the Children Parish Committee plays a crucial role in promoting a safe environment for children and youth in our parish, school, home and community, and preventing child sexual abuse.The Pastor appoints members of the Committee, and they include our School Principal, Parish Office Manager, Facilities Manager, Parish Secretary, RCIA/Teen Confirmation Coordinator, Religious Education Director, Pastoral Council and Finance Council members, school parent‑leader in Girl Scouts, school parent in law enforcement, and a pediatric nurse. The responsibilities and practices of the Committee include:

• USCCB Charter for Protection of Children and Young People
• USCCB Child and Youth Protection
• Protecting Our Children
• Working Together to Prevent Child Sexual Abuse 2016 Brochure
• Making a Report of Misconduct
• Education & Training
• Guidelines for Adults Interacting with Minors at Parish or Parish School Activities of Events
• Respecting the Boundaries - Keeping Ministerial Relationships Health and Holy

• Practice Advice for Parents on Preventing Child Sexual Abuse
• Our Reporting Process
• Reporting Child Abuse
• Education and Training
• Victims Assistance Ministry
• Fingerprinting and V.P.I.N.
• Megan’s Law and Archdiocese “Zero Tolerance Policy”
• Reports, Audit Summaries and Statements