Click here to read the Bishops’ charter, 'Promise to Protect, Pledge to Heal: Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People'
Safe Environment Coordinator
In the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, the Catholic bishops of the United
States, address their commitment to working with parents, educators, civil authorities, and various organizations in the protection of children and youth in our care.
In response to our call to accountability the Archdiocese of New Orleans provides training for children, clergy, religious, and laity (volunteers, and employees) in the prevention of and recognition of child abuse. The Safe Environment Coordinator is responsible for the training of adults who have regular contact with minors in our parishes, schools, and organizations. Adults learn the responsibilities of a mandated reporter, how to report alleged child abuse, and to recognize signs and symptoms of abuse. This training is inclusive of background screening.
Children and youth of the archdiocese are taught their identity, created in the image of God. Training teaches personal safety skills, recognition of possible abusive relationships, and the importance of identifying trusted adults in their lives.
The Safe Environment coordinator is a resource person at the disposal of parishes, schools, and organizations in the area of child abuse and the prevention of abuse. The coordinator works with all archdiocesan entities to assure compliance to the Charter.
Safe Environment Coordinator
Sr. Mary Ellen Wheelahan, O. Carm.
Archdiocese of New Orleans
7887 Walmsley Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70125
(504) 861 - 6278
srmwheelahan@archdiocese-no.org
Are You As Connected As Your Child?
Social networking is not black and white, especially for children and youth
Join other parents and learn to better help your child practice 'safe computing'
Time: 7:00 - 8:00 p.m.
September 30, 2009 at Holy Rosary Parish, New Orleans
October 7, 2009 at Mary, Queen of Peace, Mandeville
October 28,2009 at St. Matthew the Apostle Parish, River Ridge
Sponsored by:
Office of Communications
Vice-Chancellor
Victim’s Assistance Coordinator
Safe Environment Coordinator
'The relationship of children, media, and education can be considered from two perspectives:
the formation of children by the media; and the formation of children to respond appropriately
to the media. A kind of reciprocity emerges which points to the responsibilities of the media as
an industry and to the need for active and critical participation of readers, viewers, and listeners.'
Pope Benedict XVI, 41st World Communication Day
For further information, please contact Sr. Mary Ellen Wheelahan, O. Carm.
Safe Environment Coordinator
Archdiocese of New Orleans
(504)861-6278
srmwheelahan@archdiocese-no.org