Archdiocesan Safe Environment and training

The Archdiocese of Atlanta is committed to helping children and young people learn and grow in a healthy and safe environment.  St. Michael's complies with Archdiocesan Safe Environment policies and procedures in accordance with the U.S. Bishop's Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People.  Safe Environment programs are in place to assist parents and children-and those whose duties involve contact with minors-in preventing harm to young people.  

The Archdiocese of Atlanta proudly offers Safe Environment training materials to all schools and parishes.  VIRTUS Protecting God's Children (commonly referred to as "Virtus") is the training program for adults and children in grades Kindergarten through 12th grade.  

We are happy to partner with you in working to keep your children safe.  Please visit the Archdiocesan Safe Environment page for information on reporting child abuse.

For Adult Volunteers: 
Thank you for the generous gift of your time. The Archdiocese of Atlanta requires that all adult volunteers working with children, youth, and/or vulnerable individuals must complete the Safe Environment training (see VIRTUS link below) and undergo a background screening before they start volunteering.  In addition, volunteers must be familiear with the Reporting Child Abuse Guidelines. To view these guidelines, click the Safe Environment Policies and Procedures link below.  For information contact Teresa Barnhill (tbarnhill@saintmichaelcc.org).

Important links:
Safe Environment Main page

Reporting Abuse

Safe Environment Policies and Procedures


For Catechists and PSR volunteers. 
Thank you for joining St. Michael's PSR Ministry.  The Archdiocese of Atlanta requires you to complete the Safe Environment/VIRTUS program since you will be working with our Parish children.  You will receive an email from the RE office with the subject:  On behalf of St. Michael the Archangel Church: Background Screening Instructions. 
Please click on the link in the email and complete this online process as soon as possible.  You will be asked to create a logon, read the Safe Environment documents, fill out online forms and register for a VIRTUS training session.  You will receive a confirmation email from VIRTUS confirming your session registration.  Here is the link to the VIRTUS class registration page if you miss it when you were completing Safe Environment information: 

https://www.virtusonline.org/virtus/reg_list2.cfm?theOrgID=19153&theme=0