The Archdiocese of St. Louis Safe Environment Program (Protecting God’s Children) is designed to help protect the youth, elderly, and vulnerable adults of our parish as they participate in activities within our community. This process also provides a layer of protection against the possibility of false accusations for those adults who are involved in our many ministries.
Victims of sexual abuse, in addition to contacting civil authorities, are asked to come forward in order to receive pastoral assistance. Reports of abuse may be made to any Pastor or to:
- Sandra Price, Executive Director, Office of Child & Youth Protection, 314-792-7271, sandraprice@archstl.org
- Missouri Department of Social Services, Children’s Division Hotline Reporting Number: 1-800-392-3738
- Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services Adult Abuse and Neglect Hotline Number, 1-800-392-0210
The Protecting God’s Children program equips those who serve the Church to recognize questionable behavior, to implement best practices for the safety of our children, and to take the necessary steps to address even the suspicion that a cleric or other Church worker has done something inappropriate or wrong.
All clergy, employees and volunteers whose service in the Church brings them into contact with children must have a background check conducted through Selection.com and agree to regular updates of the screening.
Also, the Archdiocese has the Code of Ethical Conduct to guide workers and volunteers in the protection of children and young people.
See a list of upcoming Protecting God’s Children workshops
