Every person has the right to be treated with dignity and to be safe in parish life.
The Roman Catholic Churches of Vernon and Area follow the safe-environment policies and reporting process of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Kamloops. Parish volunteers and staff must follow the screening, training, supervision, and risk-management requirements that apply to their roles.
Parish responsibilities
Safe parish ministry depends on clear conduct expectations, appropriate screening and training, responsible supervision, and prompt action when a concern is raised. The requirements for a role are confirmed before a volunteer begins serving.
Reporting a concern
The Diocese of Kamloops publishes the current reporting process and diocesan contacts on its Creating a Safe Environment page. If you believe a person under 19 needs protection, follow that process and make the required report directly to the appropriate civil authority.
- Do not investigate a concern yourself
- Record information accurately
- Use current instructions
Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.
Policies, screening, and training
The Diocese determines the safe-environment requirements for ministries serving minors and vulnerable persons. The parish office can explain which local forms or training steps apply to a volunteer role; the diocesan pages remain the source for policy and reporting contacts.
- Role-appropriate screening
- Criminal record checks
- Training and supervision
- General Risk Protocol