Creating a safe environment for children and young people is a diocesan priority.
Article 12 of the US Bishops’ document, The Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, requires U.S. dioceses to establish "safe environment programs" and gives the necessary elements of these programs.

The diocesan safe environment program includes:

• Training for all volunteers regarding the dynamics of abuse and abuse-prevention strategies (required every 3 years)
• Evaluation of the backgrounds of all employees and volunteers including 3 references
• Review and signing of the Code of Conduct and Standards of Behavior

All programs require the presence of two adults or one adult and two older teen.
This policy extends to:

• All Church-sponsored trainings and events regardless of where the programs or activities are held.
• Catholic school events and activities outside of a regular classroom setting
• Religious education classes and programs
• Youth ministry programs and events
• Liturgy of the Word for children
• Rite of Christian Initiation adapted for children
• Babysitting, nursery and child care programs
• Choirs for children and youth
• Altar server training
• Vacation Bible School
• Scouting

 All new volunteers are to be interviewed and screened.

Links

• U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops: Child and Youth Protection
• Texas Department of Family and Protective Services