Safe Environment Program
The Catholic Church affirms the inherent dignity of each human being as created in the image and likeness of God. Therefore, each person possesses inherent dignity. The sexual abuse of a minor is a violation of that person’s dignity for which there is no justification. Minors especially deserve the protection of society, since they cannot adequately provide it for themselves. The Diocese of Charleston is adamant that the abuse of children, including physical injury, sexual molestation, sexual exploitation, or grave emotional damage, will not be tolerated by anyone, especially church personnel.
The Office of Child and Youth Protection provides a pastoral response to, and competent processing of, allegations of abuse of minors. With the approval and consent of the Bishop, it establishes, implements, supervises, and maintains safe environment programs in all parishes, missions and schools within the Diocese.
Safe Haven- It's Up to You Training and background screening are mandatory for all church personnel and volunteers who have access to children as part of work or ministry. Safe Haven- It's Up to You is designed to help our community create a safe environment by empowering us to recognize and prevent sexual abuse.
Vulnerable Adults eLearning- Charleston Training and background screening are mandatory for all volunteers who have access to vulnerable adults as part of work or ministry. Vulnerable Adults eLearning-Charleston is designed to help our community create a safe environment by empowering us to recognize and prevent abuse of vulnerable adults.