Safe Environment Program
We believe that each person is uniquely created and gifted by God. Our Catholic Social Teaching speaks to the Life and Dignity of the Human Person and reminds us “...that human life is sacred and…that every person is precious, that people are more important than things, and that the measure of every institution is whether it threatens or enhances the life and dignity of the human person.” Social Teaching Resources:
Minnesota Catholic Conference | United States Conference of Catholic Bishops
On this journey as His faithful, we are called to see others as our brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus. We must make a commitment to respect all people and to keep them safe.
The diocesan Safe Environment Program includes important elements that enable us to keep our communities both safe and sacred. We are committed to promote safe, healthy communities of faith, intervene when there is misconduct and respond fairly and compassionately when people are hurting.
Services provided through the diocesan Safe Environment Program include:
- Mechanism for Background Checks
- Online Learning Community
- Resources for families, including safety tips and curriculum ideas
Child Abuse Prevention Month
2009 'The Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People' Audit Compliance Letter
Mechanism for Background Checks
All those who work with minors in the parish or school community must complete a background check. We offer online services for background checks through ChoicePoint. Background checks can be completed for paid staff through the company’s ScreenNow service and through VolunteerSelect for volunteers. For more information regarding system requirements, fees and processing click here to access the Employee/Volunteer Background Screening Guide. This guide enables an individual parish or school to set up their account through the Diocese of Winona administrative system, offering special pricing. All institutions are billed for account set up and usage separately by ChoicePoint.
An Authorization/Consent Form is required to complete a background check. Click on the link to download a copy for your use.
Online Learning Community
An Online Learning Community has been established which will enable the faithful of the diocese to access up-to-date course work focused on current Safe Environment topics.
Membership is free to all clergy, religious, staff and volunteers working or worshiping at a parish in the Diocese of Winona. Members can easily access information regarding new lesson material, planned events, and resources for Catholic parishes and institutions. Participants can receive Continuing Education Credit for course work. Certificates will indicate hours earned.
 
We are here to help...
We understand how difficult it is for someone who has been harmed to share that hurt and ask for help. We believe that every person deserves respect and compassion. We offer a safe and sacred place to share your story and restore hope.
If you, or someone you know, have been a victim of misconduct, we are here to help.
Whether you have questions, would like someone to hear your experience or if you wish to file a formal complaint, assistance is available. To file a formal complaint click here.
Prayer for Healing
 O Lord, my God,
All that is good comes from You.
In my distress,
I call to You.
Hear and answer me.
In my brokenness,
I cry for wholeness.
Heal and ease my pain.
In my emptiness,
I seek to be filled.
Help me to feel Your grace.
In my deepest hurt
I ask to be comforted.
You take away my shame.
O Lord, my God,
All that is good comes from You.
Amen
Healing Services
In collaboration with the Office of Liturgy, the Safe Environment Office offers resources to parishes in the diocese for Healing Masses. This is yet another form of outreach to those who have been abused or know victims of abuse.
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