Safe Environment Requirements for Volunteers

A key to our commitment to promoting a safe environment in our parish and community is for all persons in positions of trust in regard to minors and vulnerable adults are to complete the requirements as set forth by the Archdiocese of St Paul & Minneapolis. The requirements include 1) a completed background check, 2) a signed Code of Conduct, 2) and safe environment training (VIRTUS), with re-credentialing required every three years. 

You can complete the requirements at  www.virtusonline.org . If you are a new volunteer, follow the Virtus Account Registration Guide. If you are a current volunteer, follow the Virtus Re-credentialing Guide.

All adult volunteers in this Archdiocese who have  contact with minors and/or vulnerable adults are required to:

1. Complete the online background check
2. Complete the online training: Protecting God's Children
3. Read and sign the online Code of Conduct for adult volunteers

These are mandated by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops for volunteers and staff alike to help protect children and vulnerable adults entrusted to our care. Some examples of volunteers who need to attend a VIRTUS session are:

• Catechists
• Elementary Program Volunteers
• Youth Ministry Volunteers
• Nursery Workers
• Volunteers for Hope for the Journey Shelter
• Liturgy of the Word Volunteers
• *any who work with children, youth or vulnerable adults

If you would like more information about the safe environment policy and requirements, please contact Kathy Raible at www.kraible@saintritas.org or visit the Archdiocese's website at safe-environment.archspm.org.

Important Documents and Forms

Registration Instructions for New Volunteers

Log-in Guide for Current Volunteers

Requirements for Youth Volunteers

Code of Conduct for Youth Volunteers

St Rita's Safe Environment Coordinator is Kathy Raible. If you have questions regarding Safe Environment requirements or the credentialing process, please contact her at kraible@saintritas.org or call her at the parish office 651-459-4596.

Victim Assistance Hotline: 651-291-4497

If you or anyone you know has been the victim of abuse by clergy or any employee of the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, your first call should be to local law enforcement authorities.  Then please call the number above to report the abuse.