Diocese of Columbus hosts clergy learning day on child protection

Priests and deacons from the Diocese of Columbus gathered at Sunbury St. John Neumann Church’s Faith and Family Center on Sept. 22 for a safe environment learning day. The diocesan Safe Environment Office hosted the event to help clergy lead in child protection and safety.

The program included presentations from experts on human trafficking, online safety, victim assistance, and ministry. Speakers included Molly Fara, associate director for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Secretariat of Child and Youth Protection; Sister Sally Duffy, SC, from the Alliance to End Human Trafficking; David Frattare, statewide commander for the Ohio Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force; and Crispin Ketelhut Montelione, a training director for VIRTUS Programs.

Meredith Gaul, the manager of the diocesan Safe Environment Office, said the day provides focused education on current and emerging issues to build on the ongoing formation clergy already receive. She stated the goal is for priests and deacons to be better informed to protect those in their care.