Safe Environment Program.

Our Commitment to a Safe Environment

At St. Mary Parish, the safety and well-being of every child is a top priority. In accordance with the policies of the Archdiocese of Boston, all clergy, staff, and volunteers who work with children or vulnerable individuals are required to:

  • Complete an annual CORI (Criminal Offender Record Information) background check.
  • Complete the Protecting God's Children® Safe Environment training program provided by the Archdiocese of Boston before serving in ministry and maintain any required updates.

These requirements help ensure that our parish remains a safe, welcoming, and nurturing environment where children and families can grow in faith with confidence.

If you have questions about our Safe Environment policies or training requirements, please contact the parish office or the Faith Formation Office.

 

Safe Environment Program – Empowering God's Children®

The Empowering God's Children® Safe Environment Program, approved by the Archdiocese of Boston, is an age-appropriate program that helps children understand personal safety, healthy boundaries, and how to recognize and respond to unsafe situations. As part of the Archdiocese's commitment to providing a safe environment for all children, this program is offered to every student enrolled in Faith Formation.

 

Parents Are an Important Part of This Program

We encourage all parents and guardians to review the Parent-Specific Lesson Plans and complete the program together with their child at home. These lessons provide an excellent opportunity to have meaningful, age-appropriate conversations about personal safety in a way that reinforces your family's values and faith.

 

Accessing the Parent Lesson Plans

To access the Empowering God's Children® materials:

  • Visit www.VIRTUSonline.org
  • Log in using:
    • Username: Parent_Boston
    • Password: EGCBoston1
  • Select the Educator tab.
  • From the green menu on the left, click Parent-Specific Lesson Plan Instructions.
  • Choose the lesson that is appropriate for your child's age. The corresponding videos for Elementary and Middle School students are available through the same menu.

Thank you for partnering with us in helping to create a safe environment for every child. If you have any questions, please contact the Faith Formation Office.