“Protecting God’s Children”

A VIRTUS Program on Sexual Abuse Awareness for those who minister to or work with minor children

The word virtus derives from Latin, and means valor, moral strength, excellence, and worth. In ancient times, virtus denoted a way of life and manner of behavior that always aspired to the highest, most positive attributes of people and aspects of human interaction.

Among God's greatest gifts to us are our children. We love them and do our best to provide for them, protect them and guide them as they grow. Yet, despite our best efforts, there is one nightmare which no child should have to face and no parent should have to worry about . . . child sexual abuse. It happens in the most unlikely places and is committed by people we fully expected to be trustworthy. Unless we bring child sexual abuse out into the open, we cannot hope to protect those we love the most - our children.

The Protecting God’s Children program is designed to increase our knowledge of the risks, warning signs, and harm associated with child sexual abuse. This program separates the facts from the myths. Plus, this program will help us prevent and, if necessary, respond appropriately to abuse.

The information this program provides is vital and is available to everyone, but it is required for those who minister to or work with minor children. Marge Swanson, Director of Faith Formation, and Peg Harangody Principal of St. Michael School, are trained Virtus facilitators. Please call the Faith Formation Office at 219-322-3077 for more information about the “Protecting God’s Children” workshop and the additional online training that is also a component of the program.