The local Roman Catholic Diocese of Prince Albert is offering greater protection to children and vulnerable adults.
More than 600 volunteers attended training sessions during the week of Sept. 12 outlining new protocols and procedures. All volunteers and staff who work with children and vulnerable adults must now go through a police record check, more vigorous screening and attend a yearly protocol training session.
"The mission of the church in the world is far too important to be jeopardized by the absence of a protocol like this," said Bishop Albert Thévenot.
Sessions were facilitated by Melodie Bissell of Winning Kids out of Richmond Hill, Ont. who was recommended by other churches after extensive research.
At the sessions, including two at St. Joseph Calasanctius parish in North Battleford, she shared stories she had heard of abuse and false accusations and defined abuse as including physical, emotional, sexual and financial abuse and neglect.
"It is our business to help protect our children, it is the parent's responsibility but it is the responsibility of the community," she said.
Bissell explained the policies including a two adult rule where at least two screened volunteers must be in attendance at programs, a policy where no private appointments are held behind closed doors and a need for parents to sign children in and out of activities.
"As we have become more aware of the incidents of abuse of children and vulnerable adults in our society, as a church, we could no longer ignore the possibility of these incidents damaging the mission of the church," said Bishop Thévenot.
"Not the least of which without insurances our very existence could be jeopardized since many dioceses have already had to declare bankruptcy."
He explained this process has been in the works for about seven years.
"Once in place, it will provide a greatly enhanced sense of comfort to those working with the youth and the vulnerable as well as to the parents and siblings. In turn, we hope that it will enhance the willingness of others to volunteer for these very important ministries," he said.
The Responsible Ministry Protocol can be viewed online at padiocese.ca or by contacting the Diocese of Prince Albert.
