Sexual Misconduct Prevention Training

December 5th from 9AM to Noon in the Zoe Eden Hall lower meeting room on the campus of St James' Cathedral in Fresno.

Predators target children's ministries.  This training is given in order to increase our awareness and ability to protect children from predators.  

Everyone who works with or ministers to children regularly is REQUIRED to attend this training.  This includes Sunday School teachers, childcare workers, youth workers, youth ministers, and ordained ministers, whether paid or volunteer.  Ordained clergy must take this training every five years or less.  Those studying for ordination are required to take SMPT prior to ordination.  If you have received similar training and a background check elsewhere within the past five years, you must be able to supply current documentation in order to be exempt.

The first hour will include a video with discussion, which provides an overview of the risks and concerns, and is also a beneficial presentation to parents on how and why to be vigilant.

The second hour builds on the first hour with a video and discussion that is directed toward church workers and ministers, and focuses on how to take preventative action and use policies and practices that safeguard children.

In the third hour we will look at specific policies and practices used in the Diocese of San Joaquin.

Please call Saint James' Cathedral office at (559) 222-3721 to let us know that you will be attending, and so that we will have sufficient materials prepared.

If you have any questions about the SMPT presentation or training, please contact Fr Van McCalister at (559) 222-3721.