Virtus Training- also known as Protecting God’s Children is an awareness program mandated by the Diocese of Grand Rapids to protect children and youth by creating a safe environment. Topics include the dangers and warning signs of abuse, case histories, ways to prevent abuse and how to report suspected abuse. This is a mandatory class for all volunteers of the Diocese. To sign up go to www.virtus.org and click on the registration tab and follow the prompts.
Catechetical Ministry is a Foundational Ministry of the Church
The Catechetical ministry of “fostering the growth of faith in those who believe” from the General Directory for Catechesis # 287) is a foundational ministry of the Church. When well done, it builds up the whole people of God in Faith and discipleship, nurturing the gifts with which they live the Christian life and serve the mission and ministries of the Church.
The U.S. Bishops affirmed the pivotal role of catechetical ministry in the whole of the Church’s life when they stated: “While all ministries require support, we know that by strengthening the catechetical ministry we also strengthen the Church’s internal life as a community of believers and her external activity as a missionary church (CT, no 15)” (In Support of Catechetical Ministry [2000], pp.3-4).
Pope John Paul II put it concisely when he wrote, in his apostolic exhortation on catechesis: “You can be sure that if catechesis is done well in your local Churches, everything else will be easier to do” (Catechesi Tradendae [1979], #63).
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Background Check – Fill out the top portion (Required Information) sign and return to the Religious Ed office. It is not necessary to fill out the “Other Information” portion of the form. If we need any other information we will contact you |
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Standards of Ministerial Behavior – Read the guidelines then click HERE to sign the form. Please return the form to the Religious Education office. |
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Read the following documents . There is no other action that needs to be taken. The Diocese would like the people to know how they are handling the allegations. 1.Essential Norms for Diocesan Policies: Dealing with Allegations of Sexual Abuse of Minors by Priests or Deacons
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