Procedure

Anyone with reason to believe that a child has been abused or is being abused should report their suspicions to civil authorities.  Contact:  Illinois Department of Children and Family Services: 1-800-25ABUSE (1-800-252-2873) or local police.

The Diocese of Joliet Victim Assistance Coordinator is available to help victims/survivors of child sexual abuse by a cleric, employee or volunteer of the Catholic Church.  The Victim Assistance Coordinator will report to Bishop Conlon and coordinate efforts of pastoral support and outreach to assist in the healing process.  The Victim Assistance Coordinator can also assist in making a report to civil authorities.  Contact the Diocese of Joliet Victim Assistance Coordinator at 1-815-263-6467.

Under this heading, you will find forms that need to be completed to be involved in ministries and activities involving children at Sacred Heart Parish.  If you have any questions, please contact the rectory at 630-627-0687.  These forms are kept by the rectory in a secure location.

To find a Protecting God's Children class, the Diocese of Joliet has these opportunities.  The class is offered by Catholic churces in the Archdiocese of Chicago and the Rockford Diocese if you need more choices.

Documents to read:

1. Diocese of Joliet:  Policy Regarding Sexual Abuse of Minors (Revised February 2013)

2. Diocese of Joliet: Standards of Behavior to Safeguard Against Child Abuse (Revised 2014)

Forms to complete:

1.  Acknowledgement the above policies have been read:   English   Spanish

2.  Volunteer Profile

3.  Volunteer Background Check

For High School students:  Application Form for Minors Serving as Volunteers

Other material:   Practical Advice for Parents on Preventing Child Sexual Abuse

Please visit Virtus® Online for more information on compliance with Protecting God's Children.