Safe Environment Policy

The Diocese of Fort Worth promotes the safety of all individuals with Safe Environment awareness programs in parishes and schools. These programs provide training to safeguard the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of all members of the community.

All volunteers at St. Michael — even those participating in ministries/activities that do not directly involve children — must complete the Diocesan Safe Environment requirements and renew their certifications periodically.

ADULT VOLUNTEERS (18 and older):

• must completely fill out a Volunteer Ministry

Application, agree to the Code of Conduct, pass a background check, and complete the ‘VIRTUS’ awareness course BEFORE beginning their service • must renew their ‘VIRTUS’ certification every two years; background checks will be done every five years

TEEN VOLUNTEERS (13-17 years old):

• must completely fill out a Youth Ministry

Application, agree to the Code of Conduct, and complete the ‘Teen Leadership Training’

BEFORE beginning their service • must renew their training every three years, or until they turn 18

For more information about Safe Environment requirements, please contact Elizabeth Chanoine, Safe Environment Coordinator, at echanoine@smcchurch.org or 817.510.2734.

THANK YOU for your cooperation in helping us to maintain a safe environment for the children, youth and vulnerable populations in our parish community.