We are committed to providing a safe church for all of God’s children. We have a comprehensive policy and practices for preventing any form of abuse in our community.

Policy Highlights

• all employees undergo criminal background and reference checks

• all employees and lay leaders, including those who work directly with children and youth, undergo an intensive abuse prevention training

• all children’s activities occur in visually accessible areas of the building

• no adult is permitted to be alone with a child or youth without supervision

Reporting Abuse, Neglect, or Exploitation

1. Any adult who has reason to suspect that abuse, neglect, or exploitation of children or youth has taken place, is strongly encouraged — and all mandated reporters are required — to contact the state’s Child Protective Services.

   Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS)

   24-hour Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-252-2873

   Online Child Abuse Neglect Reporting system: dcfsonlinereporting.dcfs.illinois.gov

2. In addition, anyone who has reason to suspect that abuse, neglect, or exploitation of children or youth has taken place within this congregation should contact the clergy person in charge or, if unavailable, one of the wardens. Clergy Person in Charge: Rev. Dan Puchalla

3. Any suspicion of violations by a member of the clergy should additionally be reported to the Diocesan Intake Officer: Rev. Tim Murray: 847-828-4175 

   tmurray@stmichaelsbarrington.org