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Protecting God’s Children™ is a four hour introductory workshop designed to raise awareness about the reality of child sexual abuse. Through videos and facilitated group discussion format, the session helps participants become more familiar with the issues and myths surrounding child sexual abuse; signs of sexual abuse in children; behavioral patterns of perpetrators; steps the Church is taking to prevent future abuse; and a plan of action for adults to remain watchful for would-be perpetrators.

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Who is allowed to do the programme?

Any adult who is interested in learning how protect children from sexual abuse is welcome to attend. Being a volunteer is not a requirement. (However due to the content, persons under 18 are not allowed.)

What the Virtus Programme isn't?

PGC is not a punishment or an accusation against volunteers. On the contrary it illustrates how, through increased awareness and vigilance, all adults can become part of the solution to stopping child sexual abuse.

PGC is not intended to be catechetical in nature and assumes participants have other opportunities for catechesis on the Church’s teaching on chastity and human sexuality.

What will participants learn?

How to detect the warning signs of child abuse

Ways to prevent child sexual abuse

The procedures for reporting and handling allegations

Who is required to participate?

The following adults are required to attend Protecting God’s Children:

-All parish, school and diocesan employees, regardless of their level of
contact with children

-All clergy and applicants to clerical formation who serve in the diocese

-Every volunteer in a school, program or ministry for children and youth,
regardless of their level of contact with children

-Volunteers for other parish programs or ministries who have been delegated care, custody or control of children