In the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, the Catholic bishops of the United States, address their commitment to working with children and youth, parents, educators, civil authorities, and various organizations in the protection of children and youth in our care.

In response to our call to accountability the Archdiocese of New Orleans provides training for children, clergy, religious, and laity (employees and volunteers) in the prevention of and recognitions of child abuse.

Parishes, Catholic schools and related entities of the Archdiocse of New Orleans are required to participate in the Safe Environment program and complete audit requirements each year.

The Safe Environment Coordinator is a resource person for the Archdiocese at the disposal of parishes, schools, and organizations in the area of child abuse and the prevention of abuse. The coordinator works with all archdiocesan entities to assure compliance to the Charter.
 

Safe Environment Coordinator
Sr. Mary Ellen Wheelahan, O. Carm.
Archdiocese of New Orleans
7887 Walmsley Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70125
(504)861-6278
[email protected]

To contact the Victims Assistance Coordinator, Joey Pistorius
call (504) 861-6253 or email [email protected].

VIRTUS® Programs is a comprehensive Safe Environment training platform for adults and children. The Protecting God’s Children® Program and the Vulnerable Adult training  will be the official training for clergy, employees, volunteers and children.  

The corresponding VIRTUS  database is an online portal that provides access to your Safe Environment account. All archdiocesan users will have access to their previous training records within the database. To renew, click here.