Safe Environment
-
-
Protecting God’s ChildrenSafe EnvironmentEvery child and young person deserves to learn, pray and thrive in a safe and trusted environment, one that families can rely on. We as a diocese are committed to the highest standards and protocols for ensuring prevention of abuse and fostering a culture of accountability and ongoing vigilance.
Created in 2002, the Office of Safe Environment assists the bishop in the diocese’s work to keep churches, schools and ministries safe for our children and to support our clergy, employees and volunteers with practical approaches to identifying concerning behaviors.“What we want to do is have a community here that’s safe for people to bring their children… a trusted place for children to grow in faith.”
Bob McDermott, Director of the Office of Safe Environment
-
-
-
Children’s safety is an ongoing priority for the Diocese of Portland. If you have any questions about our Protecting God’s Children efforts, training requirements, or safeguarding practices, please reach out to our director, Bob McDermott. A former law enforcement officer, he is dedicated to the welfare and protection of children across our diocesan community.
-
Reporting Protocols
If you suspect abuse or misconduct, and you feel the individual is in immediate danger, call 911 first.
The Office of Professional Responsibility and its Director, Michael Magalski, for the Diocese of Portland leads the investigative process for complaints involving clergy, employees, or volunteers.
-
-
Bob McDermottsafeenvironmentportlanddiocese.orgDirector of Safe Environment
-
Michael Magalskimichael.magalskiportlanddiocese.orgDirector of Professional Responsibility
-
-
-
-
Screening and MonitoringWe conduct criminal background checks, Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) background checks, and related screenings for clergy, diocesan employees, and volunteers who work with children on a regular basis, along with required motor vehicle checks where applicable. Each year, between 4,000 and 5,000 background checks are conducted.
-
Training and Education
Protecting God’s Children
Protecting God’s Children is designed to educate adults on how to recognize warning signs that may indicate a child is being abused. The program also addresses how sexual predators may behave so that individuals can take a proactive, informed stance on protecting children and feel empowered to act. To date, more than 28,000 have completed this training (including all currently active clergy, employees and volunteers).
Find a Schedule of ClassesCircle of Grace
Circle of Grace is designed to educate both parents and children on the different ways that sexual predators behave and how children can be more aware of unsafe situations and feel confident reaching out to a trusted adult for help. These trainings are conducted through each parish or school. Parents choosing to train their children are provided with information and resources.
-
Building a Culture of Awareness
Prevention is not a one-time checkbox. Safe environments are strengthened when adults understand boundaries, recognize concerning behavior early, and speak up when something doesn’t feel right.
“If you feel uncomfortable… don’t ignore this. Report it.”
Bob McDermottThrough on-going training, clergy, employees and volunteers working with children learn to be proactive so they can:
Recognize warning signs of abuse
Understand appropriate boundaries
Respond quickly and appropriately to concerns
Have clear expectations for boundaries and appropriate conduct
Follow reporting pathways and coordinated response when concerns arise
-