Protection of Children & Youth


Click below for information about how the Archdiocese works to prevent abuse, and what resources are available for victim-survivors.

To report an allegation of abuse and/or neglect of minors, contact the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) Hotline at 800.25.ABUSE and/or contact your local police department. You can also contact the Office of the Protection of Children and Youth (OPCY) at 312.534.5254.


VIRTUS: Protecting God's Children

Divine Mercy Parish is committed to the protection of our young people, and complies with all requirements set forth by the Archdiocese of Chicago’s Office for the Protection of Children and Youth.

The Archdiocese has established background check and training protocols for each of the following groups with a parish:
  • Clergy
  • Parish Employees, including Children’s Ministry Staff
  • School Employees
  • Parish, School and Children’s Ministry Volunteers and Coaches
  • Anyone Who Ministers to and with Children and Youth

Specific background checks and training requirements include the following:
  • Criminal Background Check (CBC)
  • Fingerprinting through Accurate Biometrics (FP)
  • Child Abuse and Neglect Tracking Form (CANTS)
  • VIRUS Training – VIRTUS, also known as Protecting God’s Children for Adults, identifies best practices and promotes behaviors that create a safe environment for all who interact with the Church.
  • Mandated Reporter Training (MRT) – MRT was developed by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services.
  • Archdiocesan Code of Conduct (ACC)

Divine Mercy is required to conduct a self-audit each year; specific requirements can be viewed here.
ARE YOU A VOLUNTEER AND NEED VIRTUS TRAINING?

Divine Mercy parishioners can sign up for a VIRTUS training session by clicking the button below. Be sure to keep your certificate of completion, and provide a copy to the parish. Thank you for helping to keep our children safe!