ASSUMPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH
ASSUMPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH
Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
VIRTUS Information
VIRTUS is required for all Assumption Parish employees and volunteers who have (or who could possibly have) contact with children or vulnerable adults.
We are often on the front lines and need to combat all types of abuse. VIRTUS trains us to better serve our youth and neighbors. VIRTUS training will help us know what to look for, know the signs, and know what to do if we ever encounter abuse.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does VIRTUS Stand for, is it an acronym?
A: Virtus is a Latin term. It was a specific virtue in Ancient Rome. It carries the connotations of valor, excellence, courage, character, and worth. It was a frequently stated virtue of Roman emperors and was personified as a deity – Virtus.
Q: Is there training for our youth?
A: Circle of Grace is an age-appropriate course given annually through our Youth Faith Formation program. The Circle of Grace Philosophy: The Catholic Church teaches that God has created each of us as unique and special. Genesis 1:27 tells us that we are created “male and female in God’s image” and that God saw this as “very good.” In that goodness, we are meant to respect ourselves and everyone else as persons created and loved by God.
Q: Do all volunteers need to go through the VIRTUS process?
A: If you are an Assumption volunteer and you have the realistic potential to interact with children or vulnerable adults, then yes.
VIRTUS is about protecting all of God’s children, both our youth and our vulnerable adults. The Diocese of Las Cruces Safe Environment Policy has three components: Education, Screening, and Standards of Conduct. Here is a link to the Diocese Safe Environment Sexual Abuse Policy:
https://rcdlc.org/safe-environment.
Q: How much is this going to cost me?
A: Only a very small amount of time. The VIRTUS training is completed online. You must also complete a request for a background check which is free to you.
Q: How can I complete VIRTUS training?
A: Fill out a
volunteer application
at the church office. Carol Dutchover, Director of Religious Education will first check your references and then send you an email with instructions and a link to the VIRTUS website.
You will be asked to 1) complete a request for a background check; 2) read and sign a Code of Conduct statement, and 3) complete the Protecting God’s Children training with short videos and questions to answer.
Q: How often do I have to take the VIRTUS training?
A: Every 5 years we must each recertify with a new background check, Code of Conduct, and Protecting God’s Children training videos.
For more information, please contact:
Carol Dutchover, Director of Religious Education
575-622-9895 x106
dre.bvm@gmail.com