SAFE Environment

Diocesan Child & Youth Protection Policy

To fulfill the commitments of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, the Diocese of Syracuse established the Diocesan Child and Youth Protection Policy. This policy provides clear guidelines for preventing abuse, educating adults, and responding appropriately to allegations of child sexual abuse. The policy applies to all clergy, members of religious orders, all parish and diocesan employees (including those without direct contact with minors or vulnerable adults), and volunteers whose ministry places them in regular contact with children, youth, or vulnerable adults. All persons and entities under diocesan auspices are expected to comply.


Core Requirements

  • Diocesan Code of Conduct
  • Initial Safe Environment Training within 45 days of beginning ministry
  • Safe Environment Re‑Certification every five years
  • Criminal background checks every five years


Please watch the short video clip outlining the Safe Environment training action plan.


Safe Environment at Holy Trinity & St. Stephen

The safety of our children, youth, and vulnerable adults is a shared responsibility. As part of diocesan requirements, all parishioners who serve in ministry must complete Initial Safe Environment Training or Re‑Certification by September 30, 2026.


Why This Matters:

Training equips adults to recognize concerning behaviors, maintain healthy boundaries, and foster a safe, faith‑filled environment for all entrusted to our care.


Who Must Be Trained

  • All employees and clergy
  • All liturgical ministers (ushers, choir, lectors, EMHCs, homebound ministers, etc.)
  • Designated outreach volunteers


Initial Safe Environment Training

  • Required for designated outreach volunteers, employees, and liturgical ministers.
  • Format: 2‑hour, in‑person session
  • Content: Recognizing predatory behaviors; maintaining healthy boundaries
  • Age: Participants must be 18 or older
  • Pre‑registration: Required
  • Arrival: Please arrive 10 minutes early; late arrivals may be turned away
  • Important: Training must be completed before beginning ministry

Register: Initial Safe Environment Training or scan the QR Code to the right.


Safe Environment Re‑Certification

  • Required every five years under diocesan policy.
  • Format: 1.5‑hour, in‑person session
  • Background check: Required
  • Pre‑registration: Required
  • Arrival: Please arrive 10 minutes early; late arrivals may be turned away
  • Important: Expired credentials require a pause in ministry until training is completed

Register:  Re-certification Safe Environment Training for Adults or scan the QR Code to the right.


For questions about your training status, contact the Safe Environment Office at 315‑470‑1421 or Lucy Hawthorne at 315‑598‑2118.


Diocesan Code of Conduct

We encourage all parishioners to read the Diocesan Code of Conduct (click the image to access). This document outlines the ethical standards and required practices that guide ministry and ensure a safe, respectful environment rooted in the dignity of every person. While mandatory for clergy, employees, and ministers, the principles within the Code reflect our shared responsibility as a parish community. By familiarizing yourself with these expectations, you help strengthen a culture of vigilance, care, and trust within and beyond our parish.