THE TEACHING FUNCTION OF THE CHURCH
Table of Contents
Secretariat for Evangelization Catholic Youth and School Service Catholic Schools ...... 2001 Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) ...... 2002 Parish Athletic Director ...... 2019 Coaches ...... 2024 Participants ...... 2090 Safety Regulations ...... 2113 League & Tournament Play ...... 2137 Religious Education Office of Evangelization and Catechesis ...... 2176 Mysterium Christi Diocesan Institute ...... 2178 Policy for Invited Speakers ...... 2199 Policies for the Sacrament of Baptism ...... 2213 Policies for the Sacrament of Reconciliation ...... 2225 Policies for the Sacrament of Eucharist ...... 2234 Policies for the Sacrament of Confirmation of Children ...... 2242 Celebration of the Sacraments with Persons with Disabilities ...... 2248 Formation for Chastity and Human Sexuality ...... 2276 Home-Based Religious Education ...... 2282 Personnel ...... 2303 Youth Ministry ...... 2333 Young Adult Ministry ...... 2349 Campus Ministry ...... 2359 Appendices The Parish and Athletics (Rev. James J. Bacik) ...... O CYO Team Prayer ...... P CYO Forms ...... Q
TF - 1 June 11, 2010 I. SECRETARIAT FOR EVANGELIZATION
Catholic Youth and School Services (C. Y. S. S.)
Catholic Schools
2001 The policies governing Toledo diocesan education management and conduct are found in the PRINCIPALS' HANDBOOK, which can be accessed by logging onto the Diocese of Toledo website
Catholic Youth Organization (C. Y. O.)
Introduction
Mission
2002 The Catholic Youth Organization (CYO), as a component of Catholic Youth & School Services, assists the Bishop in his teaching mission by serving, challenging, and supporting the leaders of youth formation and education who minister in parishes and in the Diocese of Toledo.
Focus
2003 The Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) is an athletic program designed to be a character builder for youth. The ideals of good sportsmanship and Christianity shall be the overriding influence of the program.
2004 CYO Athletics should be viewed as part of the faith building efforts of the participating members. These programs can be effective tools that will invite, welcome and involve any person into the life of that faith community. The inter-relationship of CYO Athletics with family life, parish life, and school life, is essential.
2005 Total participation is a main goal of the CYO athletic program. All who have the opportunity to be on a team also have the right to participate in the game. The young person, not the athletic activity, is our key focus.
Spiritual Formation
2006 All those involved with CYO (athletic directors, coaches, parents, spectators, etc.) must never lose sight of the fact that this is a Catholic Organization and that each person serves as a minister of the Catholic Church. (See “The Parish and Athletics” Outline by Fr. Jim Bacik - Appendix N).
2007 The Athletic Director, as a leader in the parish, must set an example and reflect the attitude of CYO athletics as a ministry to coaches and parents.
TF - 2 June 11, 2010 2008 The coach sets the tone and gives direction to the individual team. His/her position must also be seen in the context of ministry to youth.
2009 A team prayer must be included as part of all games and practices. Prior to the start of any CYO contest, athletes from the two competing teams and their coaches will meet with game officials and together recite the official CYO Team Prayer (See Appendix O).
2010 Parish athletic directors and/or coaches are encouraged to meet with the parish pastor/al leader to schedule a team Mass, Reconciliation Service, Coaches’ Commissioning, etc.
2011 This would also be a good opportunity to ask the pastor/al leader how the team could be of service to the parish community away from the playing field.
Funding
2012 The CYO office in the Diocese of Toledo is funded by team & player fees from each sponsored sport, gate admissions, and donations from individuals.
Personnel
CYO Staff
Diocesan Director of CYO Athletics
2013 The Diocesan Director of CYO Athletics oversees the total athletic program (K-12) for the Diocese of Toledo. This includes the sports of basketball, cheerleading, cross country, fall soccer, football, softball, spring soccer, track and volleyball.
Assistant Diocesan Director of CYO Athletics
2014 The Assistant Diocesan Director of CYO Athletics works with the Director of Athletics to help with all aspects of athletic programming in the Diocese of Toledo.
CYO Chaplain
2015 The CYO Chaplain serves to connect the total CYO effort to youth with the mission of the Catholic Church by offering sacramental ministry, encouraging vocations, and providing spiritual and theological direction. The Chaplain is a member of the CYO Advisory Committee.
CYO Sports Commissioners
TF - 3 June 11, 2010
2016 The commissioners of sports sponsored by CYO Athletics assist the Director and Assistant Director of Athletics with a variety of duties throughout the sports season for the metro Toledo leagues. This may include, but is not limited to, the formation of leagues, scheduling of games and/or officials, and interpretation of rules.
CYO Administrative Assistant
2017 The CYO Secretary works with the Director and Assistant Director of CYO Athletics to help with the office aspects of athletic programming in the Diocese of Toledo.
CYO Advisory Committee
2018 This committee is advisory to the Diocesan Director and Assistant Director of CYO Athletics in all aspects of CYO programming. The committee is advisory by design and does not have decision making authority (Exception: the protest procedure as outlined in 2161-2168). Members consist of parish athletic directors, CYO volunteer coaches, parents, alumni, parish pastor/al leaders and principals. The term of each committee member is a two year minimum, renewable for one additional two-year term.
PARISH ATHLETIC DIRECTOR
2019 The CYO Parish Athletic Director is an adult leader of the entire parish athletic program. This person should be someone who is organized, respected within the parish community, able to effectively communicate, mediate disputes and someone who cares about the well-being of kids above all else. Although it is helpful for the parish athletic director to possess a knowledge of the rules of the games, it is not absolutely necessary to be successful in this position. It is recommended that an AD who is not an active coach attend CYO Certification classes to obtain current CYO coaching certification status. The parish athletic director is the lead person as far as communication with the parish pastor, school principal, parish DRE and the CYO office. The position of the parish athletic director is not an easy one, but at the same time it can be a very rewarding one. This is certainly a very important ministry to the youth at each parish.
Parish Athletic Director Basic Duties
2020 Some basic duties of a typical parish athletic director may include, but is not limited to:
Meet with the parish pastor at least once each year to review the athletic program; Keep the pastor up-to-date with what is happening in the parish athletic program; Coordinate all player sign-ups; Oversee the formation/selection of all teams; TF - 4 June 11, 2010 Ensure that all participants meet CYO eligibility requirements; Establish a parish system for collecting & tracking player/parent contracts; Submit all CYO team entry forms and fees to the CYO Office prior to the deadline (including league and scheduling requests); Recruit coaches; Meet with all coaches to review expectations, duties & responsibilities; Track all coaches to make certain that they have been fingerprinted; Track all coaches to make certain that their CYO Coaching Certification is current; Submit all CYO rosters and fees to the CYO office prior to the deadline; Implement an evaluation process for all coaches; Mediate any issues that may occur with coaches, parents and/or players; Document in writing all coaching problems and/or concerns and send them to the coach and pastor; Forward to the CYO Office, to be kept on file, any correspondence regarding the removal of a coach from his/her coaching duties; Obtain the CYO Lanyard of any coach who has had his/her coaching privileges revoked; Meet with parish athletic board and/or athletic commissioners on a regular basis; Evaluate the equipment, facilities and uniforms to ensure that the participants are safe; Develop a parish athletic budget each spring; Communicate with the parishioners through the weekly parish bulletin, newsletters, bulletin boards, and other means that may be available.
Each parish is structured uniquely and the basic duties may be different from one parish to the next.
Parish Athletic Budget
2021 Preliminary to establishing a parish CYO budget for the year, it is recommended that the parish athletic director meet with the pastor/al leader to discuss financial needs. The pastor/al leader must approve a final budget for the parish CYO athletic program.
2022 A full written accounting of all parish CYO fees with a complete and up-to-date reconciliation of authorized expenses, money devoted to approved projects and that remaining on hand, must be kept on file on the parish premises for prompt access, ready reference and appropriate church control. The pastor/al leader must authorize any tax-exempt purchase, substantial expense, project, program or fund-raising TF - 5 June 11, 2010 activity by the parish CYO group. Strict procedures to account for all funds coming into the hands of anyone involved in the CYO program must be established and followed at all times. Fees should be charged only if actual expenses will be incurred.
2023 Any fund-raising activities must conform to and comply with diocesan policy, procedures and regulations (on file in the parish office), as well as local, state and federal law and must be approved by the parish pastor/al leader.
COACHES
Coaches’ Eligibility
2024 All head coaches and assistant coaches must be approved by the parish pastor/al leader.
2025 All candidates for CYO coaching positions (both head and assistant) over the age of 18 are required by Diocese of Toledo Policy to be electronically fingerprinted. The Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation (BCI) will perform a criminal background check which will be forwarded to the Office of Catholic Youth & School Services. Coaching candidates must receive a favorable BCI report in order to coach.
2026 Any coaching candidate who has lived outside of Ohio within the past five years must also have a FBI fingerprinting background check.
2027 More information and fingerprinting services are available through the Office of Catholic Youth and School Services.
2028 Any head coach under the age of 24 must meet with and receive written approval from the parish pastor/al leader and/or the parish athletic director. This letter must then be kept on file at the parish office and a copy must also be forwarded to the Diocesan CYO office.
2029 All head coaches and assistant coaches (including high school students serving as coaches for service hours) are required by Diocese of Toledo Policy to successfully complete an initial safety orientation and training program approved by Ohio Parks and Recreation. (Contact the CYSS office for a current schedule).
2030 The initial course is effective for one calendar year (12 months).
2031 The initial course offered by the CYO includes the “Protecting Youth & Those Who Serve Them” workshop on the Diocesan Policy on Response to Child Abuse and Adult Sexual Misconduct. If a coach has already completed this educational session (within the past year), he/she need not repeat the course. A certificate of completion must be presented in order to be excused from the session.
2032 If a coach completes an approved certification program other than those offered by the CYO office (e.g. NYSCA) he/she must submit a copy of the certificate received upon completion of the certification class to the CYO office and MUST also attend the
TF - 6 June 11, 2010 Diocesan workshop on “Protecting Youth & Those Who Serve Them” before they are eligible to coach in the CYO program.
2033 All coaches must be presented with, and acknowledge by signing, the “Expectations For All Who Minister To Youth” form. This will be reviewed at all CYO Initial Certification & Re-certification sessions.
2034 The initial course must be followed annually by a three hour course.
2035 If a coach fails to maintain their current CYO Coaches Certification by attending an annual three hour course of instruction, the coach loses his/her eligibility to coach in the CYO and must again attend an initial course which includes the “Protecting Youth & Those Who Serve Them” workshop.
2036 A CYO coaches’ name tag and lanyard will be issued from the CYO Office to any coach who satisfactorily completes the course requirements. This name tag and lanyard MUST be worn by all CYO coaches at all games, meets and contests and is prima facie evidence of safety training.
2037 The CYO will not accept any type of certification program which allows an individual to send in money to renew their coaching certificate. All coaches must attend an approved renewal class every twelve months to have their coaching status remain current.
2038 Successful completion of this orientation program became mandatory in the Diocese of Toledo CYO programs prior to the start of the 1997 CYO basketball season.
2039 All head coaches and assistant coaches must sign a CYO Coaches’ Code of Ethics and submit it to the CYO Office prior to the deadline set for the sport. (See Appendix P). This document will be signed at all CYO coaches’ certification sessions.
2040 Teams may be coached by either men or women.
2041 If a man coaches a girls’ team, a female must be present at each CYO game and practice to supervise locker room facilities.
2042 If a woman coaches a boys’ team, a male must be present at each CYO game and practice to supervise locker room facilities.
2043 Coaches should be evaluated at the end of each season. This process should include input from the players’ parents and the athletic board at the parish. The results of the evaluation should be shared with the coach in a timely fashion and steps for improvement should be outlined if necessary. In the event that the removal of the coach is necessary the coach should be given an opportunity to speak with the parish athletic director and/or parish athletic board before a final decision is made. Once a final decision is made it must be shared with the coach in writing. The CYO Office must be forwarded any correspondence regarding the removal of a coach from his/her coaching duties to be kept on file. If a coach is removed from his/her coaching duties
TF - 7 June 11, 2010 either by the parish or the CYO office, they are required to turn their current coaching lanyard back to their parish athletic director or the CYO office.
2044 Remember that although coaching in the CYO program is a volunteer job that takes much time, it is a privilege, NOT a right.
Coaches’ Pre-Season Responsibilities
2045 Coaches must attend either the CYO initial certification class or the re-certification class as appropriate for his/her standing in the program and obtain team entry forms, team roster forms, coaches’ handbooks, coaching lanyard (with name tag) and other information.
2046 Coaches must submit the team entry form prior to the stated deadline for the particular sport, including any legitimate special scheduling requests of which the CYO Office should be aware. (See Appendix P) Coaches are encouraged to submit this form to his/her parish athletic director, as the team fee is required to be submitted with this form. Athletic directors are encouraged to submit all team entry forms and team fees together to the CYO Office prior to the stated deadline.
2047 Teams meeting the team entry and fee deadline are guaranteed a spot in the league. After deadlines, entry is on an “as-space is available” basis. Teams withdrawing from the league forfeit the entry fee paid.
2048 Coaches must submit to the athletic director or sports commissioner a player/parent contract for each player listed on the team roster before he/she is eligible to play. This form must be signed by the player, his/her parent, coach and physician. An annual physical examination and signature from a medical examiner (Physician [M.D., D.O., or D.C.], Advanced Nurse Practitioner or Physician’s Assistant) is required for ALL participants in the program. (See “Sample Contract” Appendix P). If an athlete submits a physical form with a doctor’s signature, other than the one provided by the CYO, it should be attached to the CYO form which includes the signature of a parent and all other required information.
2049 Coaches must submit the following paperwork and required fees to the CYO Office prior to the deadline for that particular sport in order for his/her team to be eligible to participate in any CYO athletic league. (See “Coaches’ Checklist” Appendix P).
2050 A completed team roster (See Sample Roster Appendix P). In order for a roster to be accepted, all items must be completed (including the signature of the parish pastor/al leader). The official CYO roster form MUST be used; other computer generated lists will not be accepted unless they contain all of the information which is required on the
TF - 8 June 11, 2010 official CYO form. This is needed to confirm that those players and coaches listed on the roster meet the eligibility requirements of the CYO athletic league.
2051 Coaches must submit required player fees (See “Fee Sheet” Appendix P). Parents should pay individual player fees to the parish or coach, who should then submit one check for the entire sum. Individual checks will NOT be accepted.
2052 NOTE: Both team roster and player fees MUST be turned in to the CYO Office prior to the set deadline for the particular sport. Failure to comply may result in forfeiture of the team’s first scheduled game. All paperwork and fees must have been submitted to, and found to be complete and acceptable by the CYO Office.
2053 Coaches must establish an emergency plan for practice site(s) and review it with all other coaches who will be present throughout the season. (See “Emergency Plan” Appendix P).
2054 Coaches must distribute, collect and review all emergency medical forms before the first practice. These forms must be in the coach’s possession at each game and practice. It is recommended that copies of these forms be made and that each coach carry a complete set for all team members. This is a safety issue in the event that the head coach is late to arrive at practice or is unable to attend a practice.
If any special needs or medical conditions are noted by parents on the completed emergency medical form, coaches must ask the parents to explain what emergency might occur and what actions or precautions should be taken. (See “Emergency Medical Authorization” Appendix P).
2055 Coaches must meet with parents of his/her players prior to the start of each season. This could be done with the other parish teams on the same night so that parents with more than one child in the program would have only one meeting to attend. (See “Parents’ Meeting” Appendix P).
2056 Head coaches must distribute the league schedule to all assistant coaches and team members once it is posted on the CYO web site. It is the head coach’s responsibility to educate all those associated with the team where they can find all pertinent information (schedules, standings, rules, etc.) on the CYO website.
Coaches’ General Responsibilities
2057 Coaches must understand they are a role model to the youth on their team. (See “Suggestions to Coaches/The Coach as a Role Model” Appendix P).
2058 Coaches are responsible to know and understand the rules for the sport they are coaching and to teach these rules to their players both in the letter and in the spirit. National Federation High School rule books may be purchased through the CYO Office.
TF - 9 June 11, 2010 2059 Coaches are responsible to conduct themselves in an orderly fashion and with proper bench decorum. Coaches must always set a good example for the players and spectators to follow.
2060 Coaches must respect the integrity and judgment of game officials. Treating them with respect, even when not agreeing with their judgment, will serve to create a positive impression of both the coach and team.
2061 Coaches should display modesty in victory and graciousness in defeat.
2062 Coaches are responsible for the conduct of their assistants, players, parents, and spectators.
2063 The greatest challenge of a youth coach is to develop the players on their team into better Christian people who will make their family and parish community proud.
2064 A coach must never underestimate the influence which they have on their players.
Coaches’ Transportation Liability
2065 Coaches who, with the permission of the parish leader, transport youth athletes to an approved parish or diocesan function, are not personally liable for injury or damage occurring at the function unless:
they actively approve or participate in a specific act or omission causing the injury or damage, they later ratify a prior act of omission or another with full knowledge of the event, or they are involved in willful or intentional misconduct.
2066 If a personally owned automobile is used for any parish or diocesan related transportation purpose, it is recommended that the driver should be at least 21 years of age (the age of 25 is preferred) and provide his/her own bodily injury and property damage insurance and show his/her valid driver’s license and insurance policy information to the parish/diocesan leader upon request. The leader may also require that the person younger than the recommended minimum age produce a copy of his/her traffic record to show that they are a responsible driver, if there is any question.
Conduct & Character
Expected Behavior & Positive Cheering
2067 All coaches, players, parents, spectators and others involved with a team in the CYO program are expected to conduct themselves in a Christian manner, teaching and guiding the youth with a sense of fair play, sportsmanship, and acceptance of winning and losing in accordance with Christian ideals and the objectives of the CYO program.
TF - 10 June 11, 2010
2068 This is not accomplished in the following instances:
Use of profane language or gestures. Vandalism or the destruction of property. Verbal or physical abuse of players, opponents, officials or anyone affiliated with the CYO program. Use of alcohol, drugs or tobacco before, during, or after a CYO affiliated contest. Failure of the moderator to assume direct responsibility for the individual program. Refusal to abide by the rules and decisions of the CYO Office. Knowingly using an ineligible player. Leaving the field or floor because of dissatisfaction with an official.
2069 Good sportsmanship and proper conduct are integral parts of the CYO program. Any type of cheering, yelling or other similar actions which are done in a manner to disconcert or to be derogatory toward the opposing team or a specific opponent is considered inappropriate. Cheering and other support must always be positive in nature. Cheers and encouragement should always be directed toward your team and players to do well and NOT toward an opponent to fail.
2070 Head coaches have the obligation to correct any assistant coaches, team members, parents, and/or spectators from his/her team for misconduct, foul language, etc.
Discipline
2071 A coach, player, parent or spectator guilty of any flagrant or unsportsmanlike behavior will be penalized under the direction of the Director and/or Assistant Director of CYO Athletics, CYO Staff member(s), CYO Advisory Committee or the site supervisor.
2072 The head coach is responsible for writing a game report and submitting it to the CYO Office if anyone associated with his/her team (including spectators) is ejected from a game. This must be done before that individual is allowed to attend and/or participate in another CYO contest. Failure to abide by this may result in a forfeit of a contest.
2073 The coach, player, parent, spectator or team may be suspended from one game to the remainder of the season, or permanently if the offense warrants.
TF - 11 June 11, 2010 2074 All coaches and spectators must realize that since these are parish sponsored events which are taking place mostly at school facilities the “Safe Schools Ordinance” may be used against anyone guilty of violating it. Violations include, but are not limited to, physical contact or verbal threat to any game official, coach, participant or spectator. Upon conviction, the person shall be guilty of a misdemeanor of the first degree.
Supervision of Youth
2075 The responsibility for the care and custody of youth rests with the CYO coach, parish athletic director and ultimately with the pastor/al leader. These adults serve “in loco parentis” (in place of parents) and have the authority to reasonably discipline the youth.
Adult Behavior With Children
2076 Adults should use prudence in relating to children and should be aware of behavior which could be open to misinterpretation by others. Situations that may lend themselves to opportunities for abuse, or even to the perception of opportunity for abuse, should be avoided, such as:
spending the night with a child; having a child as a sole companion on a trip, or continually seeking out the companionship of a particular child.
2077 Fraternization between youth and those who work or volunteer with youth is prohibited. Non-permissible fraternization includes any behavior (verbal or physical) of a sexual, illegal, or age-inappropriate nature; as deemed inappropriate for a particular child by the administration of the parish. This policy pertains not only to engaging in such behaviors, but also the suggestion, threat, or invitation toward such behaviors.
2078 Employees, staff members and volunteers involved in improprieties with youth will not be supported by the Diocese, rather the offenders will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
2079 The Church must be a firm defender of child’s rights regardless of who the alleged abuser is.
2080 The relationship between the employee (volunteer) and youth must always be one of adult to child, governed by the moral standards of the Church, the legal standards of the State of Ohio and common sense. As such, the policy prohibits fraternization not only during youth activities or practices, etc., but at any time or any place, unless some separate (family) relationship exists.
Child Abuse and/or Neglect
2081 It is a criminal offense for any person who has custody or control over youth, that is, a parent or one standing in the place of a parent, to create a substantial risk to the TF - 12 June 11, 2010 youth’s health or safety by violating any duty of care, protection or support. Further, it is a criminal offense to punish, discipline or restrain a youth maliciously, in an excessive or cruel manner or for a prolonged period so as to create a substantial risk of physical or mental harm to the youth.1
2082 A “neglected” youth includes any person under 18 years of age who is abandoned by his/her parents or guardian, or who lacks proper parental support and care, such as necessary subsistence, education or medical care perhaps including an apparent lack of grooming.
2083 An “abused” youth includes a victim of sexual contact or conduct, or one who exhibits evidence of intentional injury.2
2084 Anyone who suspects that a youth is being abused or neglected must report the information to the pastor/al leader for report to an appropriate agency.
Gangs/Gang Related Activity
2085 The possession of weapons or other dangerous or illegal objects by players, coaches, officials or spectators at any CYO athletic contest is prohibited.
2086 The presentation of gang “identifiers” at any CYO athletic contest is prohibited. Any participant, coach or referee who is wearing anything that has been labeled as a current gang “identifier” will be denied the opportunity to participate.
2087 Coaches who suspect a player or official in the CYO program is involved in gang activity should report their suspicions to the CYO Office.
Drugs, Alcohol, Tobacco, and Weapons
2088 The use and/or possession of non-prescribed drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or a weapon, by a player, coach, official or spectator at any CYO athletic contest or practice session is prohibited. CYO practice and game sites are drug, alcohol, tobacco and weapon-free zones.
2089 Coaches who discover a player in violation of this rule should notify the athlete’s parents as well as the parish pastor and/or parish athletic director. Please contact the CYO Office if a coach or official is found to be in violation of this rule.
Participants
Player Eligibility
2090 Any boy or girl who meets the CYO eligibility requirements must be given the opportunity to participate on a CYO parish team. The philosophy of the CYO program
1 Ohio Revised Code, Section 2919.22. 2 Ohio Revised Code, Section 2151.03. TF - 13 June 11, 2010 does not include any “cutting” of children who wish to participate on a team. Parishes may enter more than one team in any offered activities. The CYO office will help in any way possible to enter as many teams as necessary to insure full participation.
2091 Elementary School - All players must be members of the sponsoring parish and/or educational system of that parish in order to play on the parish team. The parish pastor/al leader will determine who is eligible to play on his/her parish teams. If the pastor/al leader’s determination is challenged or unclear, the CYO Office will have the ultimate say regarding player eligibility.
2092 High School - All players must be members of the sponsoring parish in order to play on the parish team. A player may not participate on a parish team other than the one in which his/her parent(s) or legal guardian(s) are registered members. As in the elementary school leagues, the parish pastor/al leader will determine who is eligible to play on his/her parish teams, but the CYO Office will have the ultimate say regarding player eligibility.
2093 Private Catholic School - All students who are enrolled in a private Catholic elementary school are eligible to play in the CYO program. If the school does not offer a team in a particular sport, the student may choose to participate for a neighboring (based on the residential address of their family) parish team.
2094 If the parent(s) and/or legal guardian(s) of a player are registered members of more than one parish, the player must designate the parish in which he/she will participate in the CYO program for the current school year. This will be decided by virtue of the parish at which they play their first sport (e.g. If a girl plays volleyball in the fall, then she will play for the same parish for the remainder of the school year unless a physical move of residence takes place).
2095 A player is not permitted to switch from the designated parish during the course of the school year unless that parish does not sponsor a team in a particular sport.
2096 This rule also pertains to a player who attends school at a parish other than the one in which his/her parents are registered members.
2097 If a family has joined more than one parish without physically moving residences within the past twelve months, the CYO Office may review each case individually consulting with the pastor, the family in question, and the CYO Advisory Committee. The CYO Office will make a final decision regarding eligibility and the athlete’s parent and/or coach will be notified. There is no appeal process once this decision is made.
2098 When a parish does not have a team in a particular sport, a boy or girl from that parish may request to play on a neighboring parish team.
TF - 14 June 11, 2010 2099 This is done by obtaining a “Transfer Request Application” (See form in Appendix P) from the CYO Office, completing all of the required information and submitting it for approval prior to the team roster deadline for that sport.
2100 It should never be assumed that the Transfer Request will automatically be approved once the form has been submitted with the required signatures. The CYO Office will review the request and make a decision regarding a player’s eligibility within 5 business days of submission to the CYO Office, notifying the applicant’s parent and/or coach.
2101 If a player’s family physically moves residences from one parish to another during a particular season, he/she has the option of switching parish teams up to the midpoint of that season. After the season’s midpoint, the player must stay with his/her original team.
2102 No player may be listed on more than one CYO team roster for a particular sport. Any player who participates in a CYO contest for a team, other than the one for which they are rostered, will be suspended for at least an equal amount of games for which they participated in illegally. The head coach of the team which used the illegal player will be suspended for at least five games and the team may be suspended from any post- season play.
2103 Use of an ineligible player results in an automatic forfeit to the opposing team in all games in which the said player participated.
2104 Late additions to the roster are permitted (by submitting “Late Roster Addition” form (See Appendix P) and appropriate player fee) only up to the midpoint of the regular season, unless otherwise specified in the league rules.
2105 No player may play for an OHSAA or MHSAA member school team (junior high or high school) and a CYO team in the same sport during the same school year.
Grade & Age Divisions of Players
2106 The PEE WEE DIVISION includes athletes from Kindergarten & 1st grade ONLY when referring to cross country. The PEE WEE DIVISION includes athletes from 1st & 2nd grades ONLY when referring to soccer.
2107 The MINOR DIVISION includes athletes from the 3rd & 4th grades ONLY when referring to soccer & softball. If the player has reached his/her 11th birthday before August 1, 2009, he/she will not be eligible to play in the Minor soccer and softball divisions. The MINOR DIVISION includes athletes from the 2nd & 3rd grades when referring to cross country. If the player has reached his/her 10th birthday before
TF - 15 June 11, 2010 August 1, 2009, he/she will not be eligible to participate in the Minor cross country division. (This division applies only to soccer, softball and cross country).
2108 The CADET DIVISION includes players from the 5th & 6th grades ONLY. If the player has reached his/her 13th birthday before August 1, 2009, he/she will not be eligible to play in the Cadet division. 4th graders are permitted to participate in the Cadet division in cross country, softball and track as well as the Tri-Deanery League (new in 2009-2010).
2109 The JUNIOR DIVISION includes players from the 7th & 8th grades. If a player has reached his/her 15th birthday before August 1, 2009, he/she will not be eligible to play in the Junior division. A 5th or 6th grader may play on a Junior team, but may not move back down to the Cadet division during the same season (in the same sport).
2110 The HIGH SCHOOL DIVISION includes players from the 9th-12th grades. A student who has reached his/her 19th birthday before August 1, 2009 will not be eligible to participate. No one whose class has graduated from high school may play in this division.
2111 The following sports are offered by CYO for the age groups listed below. No student in a grade lower than the lowest grade listed for each sport will be permitted to participate in that sport. Grade school students may participate only in grade school leagues, just as high school students may participate only in high school leagues.
Basketball 5th - 12th grade boys & girls (4th grade in Tri-deanery league)
Cheerleading 5th-8th grade boys & girls
Cross Country Kindergarten - 8th grade boys & girls
Football 5th - 8th grade boys
Soccer 1st - 8th grade boys & girls
Softball 3rd - 8th grade girls
Track 4th - 8th grade boys & girls
Volleyball 5th - 12th grade girls (4th grade in Tri-deanery league)
2112 Any exception to these division rules must be approved in writing by the Diocesan Director of CYO Athletics and/or the Assistant Director of CYO Athletics.
Safety Regulations
TF - 16 June 11, 2010 2113 ALL participants in the CYO athletic program are required to be examined by a medical examiner (Physician [M.O., D.O., or D.C.], Advanced Practitioner or Physician’s Assistant) once a year and obtain a medical examiner’s signature on his/her player/parent contract.
2114 Coaches must inspect the playing environment (clean floor, proper padding, glass on field, etc.) prior to allowing the athletes to begin practice.
2115 Coaches must provide access to drinking water. If a water fountain is not nearby, coaches must make sure the players understand who will provide drinking water (will the coach provide water for the entire team or is each player responsible for his/her own water). Coaches may never discipline players by denying them water or water breaks. Regular water breaks should be built into each practice.
2116 Coaches must ensure that any equipment worn by a player fits properly and is used correctly. Coaches must also instruct the player on consequences of improper use of equipment.
2117 All teams are strongly encouraged to carry a first aid kit with them to all games and practices.
2118 Coaches must have a completed “Emergency Medical Authorization Form” (See Appendix P) for each participant on his/her team at all practices and games. This must be completed and in the coach’s possession before the team’s first practice.
2119 In the case of a youth’s illness or accident, notification of parents is required before action is taken or as soon as possible thereafter.
2120 When it is impossible to notify parents before acting, the procedures agreed to by the parents on the youth’s current Emergency Medical Authorization form are to be followed.
2121 Medication must not be given to any youth by a coach unless he/she has been given a written request by the player’s parent or legal guardian. All personnel should be informed that the administration of any drug (prescribed or over the counter) without the order of the physician and permission of parent or guardian could be interpreted as practicing medicine and is, therefore, prohibited by law.
2122 Coaches must be aware of recommended procedures for treating injuries where communicable diseases could be transmitted. (See “Communicable Disease Procedures” Appendix P).
2123 All coaches must know where the nearest accessible phone is in case of an emergency and have completed an “Emergency Contingency Plan” form (See Appendix P) for each practice site.
2124 No jewelry is allowed to be worn during any CYO game. This includes, but is not limited to, starter earrings and all rubber band bracelets and hair beads. Coaches
TF - 17 June 11, 2010 must also enforce this rule at all team practices. This rule also applies to game officials.
2125 Two certified coaches (or a certified coach and a player’s parent) must be present at all practices. In case of an injury that requires emergency care, one person stays with the injured athlete while the other person places a call for emergency care.
In the event of an injury:
2126 Coaches must take time to evaluate injuries.
2127 Parents must be notified by the coach whenever an injury occurs.
2128 A player must never be allowed to re-enter a game or practice unless a coach is sure that he/she is capable of performing without risk of further injury.
2129 An “Injury Report” form must be completed by the coach and submitted to the CYO Office within 24 hours of the occurrence of the injury. This form should be completed if the injury took place during a game OR practice session. (See Appendix P).
2130 Coaches, game officials and league administrators must be aware of potential inclement weather and signs which indicate thunderstorm development. Every year there are several deaths due to lightning strikes. Last year there were seven athletes in the United States killed by lightning -- all were during practice. Weather can be monitored using several methods including:
2131 Monitor Weather Patterns -- Be aware of potential thunderstorms by monitoring local weather forecasts the day before and the morning of the practice or competition and by scanning the sky for signs of potential thunderstorm activity.
2132 Flash to Bang -- This method is used to assess how far away lightning is striking. It is determined by counting the number of seconds it takes to hear a clap of thunder after witnessing a flash of lightning. The number of seconds is then divided by five to get the distance, in miles, to the lightning flash.
2133 National Weather Service -- Weather can be monitored using small, portable weather radios from the NWS. The NWS uses a system of severe storm watches and warnings. A watch indicates conditions are favorable for severe weather to develop in an area; a warning indicates severe weather has been reported in an area, and everyone should take proper precautions.
2134 Upon the first indication that thunderstorm development is within 15 miles (game site or practice site) the activity shall be suspended until 30 minutes after the storm has left
TF - 18 June 11, 2010 this mile zone. Individuals should move to a safe area until after the storm has moved away.3
2135 The CYO program will follow the procedures outlined in the National Federation High School rules for each specific sport regarding participation with a cast. It is strongly recommended by the CYO that any athlete who is wearing a cast not participate until their injury is completely healed and the cast has been removed.
2136 Every player must be insured by his/her parent(s) or legal guardian(s) through an acceptable insurance program. The Diocese of Toledo, CYO Office and all of their agents, in no way will assume responsibility for injuries sustained in games or practices. Parents must sign a release on the athlete’s player contract.
League & tournament Play
League Assignments & Schedules
2137 The Director and Assistant Director of CYO Athletics and the CYO Commissioners will assign each team to a league prior to the start of the season, taking into consideration that participants have the opportunity to be involved in athletics at the level of their abilities.
2138 Coaches must submit any special requests regarding the schedule prior to the team entry deadline for each sport (in writing, on the team entry form). The CYO Staff will attempt to accommodate these requests when preparing the schedule.
2139 When a parish enters more than one team in a particular grade division, the teams will not be placed in the same league (unless there is only one league offered for that division). When there is only one league offered and two teams from the same parish are part of that league, they will not be scheduled to play against one another. If there is more than one league offered, and a parish requests to have two teams placed in the top league, the parish athletic director must submit (in writing) this request to the diocesan CYO office. This request will then be evaluated and a decision will be made. Teams will all be designated by the head coach’s last name (instead of numbers or colors).
2140 In tournament play, teams from the same parish will be placed in opposite halves of the bracket so that they could not meet until the finals (unless the tournament is a double elimination format), at which time the two teams will be declared co-champions and no game will be played. In the event that a parish enters three teams in a particular tournament they may have to play each other in the semi-finals of the tournament.
2141 Once the schedule has been posted on the CYO web site, the only games that will be changed and/or rescheduled by the CYO Office will be those that include circumstances deemed unforeseeable and unavoidable (by CYO Office).
3 Reprinted with permission from the Ohio Athletic Association. TF - 19 June 11, 2010
2142 If a coach requests a game change and it is denied by the CYO Office, one of the following situations will result:
The contest will be forfeited, or The coach may contact the coach of the opposing team to see if he/she would be open to rescheduling. If both coaches agree to re-schedule, it is the responsibility of the coach initiating the schedule change to secure a site, date, time and officials to which the opposing coach is agreeable. The coach initiating the game change will also be responsible for paying the officials.
2143 No contact with other coaches should be made prior to a denial or acceptance of a request by the CYO Office. No game changes will be considered by the CYO Office if a “star player” is out of town or ill, or if a team’s head coach is unable to attend the game.
2144 Some league schedules may have a game (or games) listed as “TBA” (To Be Announced). This means that one of the two teams involved was not available to play on that day (or weekend) and no other time was available to schedule this game. In the event that a game is listed as TBA the CYO office will not schedule a date, time or site for the game. These two teams must work together to arrange a game date, time and site and officials. (The CYO office may assist in securing officials once the game has been set up.) Results of this game must then be forwarded to the CYO office within 24 hours of the completion of the contest.
2145 Parishes may sponsor tournaments before or after the season. These tournaments may be either “open” or “invitational”. Parishes that sponsor open tournaments are encouraged to provide the CYO office tournament information to be posted on the CYO website. The CYO office will not have any part in team selection, hiring of officials or running of the tournament. Sponsoring parishes may purchase scorebooks and other supplies from the CYO office. Coaches must still honor their signed “CYO Coaching Code of Ethics” during these “outside” tournaments. Coaches may have their coaching privileges revoked if they are found to be in violation of the “CYO Coaching Code of Ethics”.
Balanced Calendar Academic Schedule
2146 Some elementary parish schools have adopted the Balanced Calendar Academic Schedule. This type of schedule includes a fall break (during October) and a spring break (during March). These breaks are usually 10 to 14 days in length.
2147 The CYO office will attempt to work with parish athletic directors and/or coaches to work around schedule conflicts during the Balanced Calendar breaks. Coaches from parishes whose school use this type of schedule are urged to meet with all their team member parents prior to the entry deadline to review each family’s plans for the break.
TF - 20 June 11, 2010 The CYO office must be notified prior to the team entry deadline not only of any conflicts, but also if there are no conflicts affecting the teams.
Forfeits
2148 Any team that forfeits two games without notifying the CYO Office at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled starting time will be dropped from the league and all previously played games will be considered no contest.
2149 Coaches must not use an ineligible player in an attempt to avoid a forfeit. This will only compound the problem (see “Participants” 2090ff).
Officials
2150 The officials are appointed by the CYO Office (or their designee) and are either those licensed by the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) in that particular sport or high school students who have completed CYO training sessions in order to officiate.
2151 The officials are in complete charge of the game. Any unsportsmanlike behavior displayed by coaches, players, parents and/or spectators will be penalized by the CYO Office.
2152 An official’s judgment may not be protested.
Game Report Forms
2153 Coaches are encouraged to make copies of the “Game Report” form (See Appendix P) included in each handbook and complete this form after each contest, mailing, e- mailing or faxing it to the CYO Office within 48 hours of the contest.
2154 Coaches are asked to include compliments, as well as complaints, regarding the opposing coach, fans, players, officials, game site, etc. The CYO Office will contact the coach submitting the form if the situation warrants.
2155 Please do not write to the Bishop, pastor/al leader of the parish involved, other coaches, etc. until the CYO office has been given an adequate opportunity to resolve the issue.
2156 The CYO Office will handle problems that arise and will notify the appropriate personnel when it is deemed necessary.
Protests & Complaints
2157 A formal protest is a written objection directly associated with the rules and/or eligibility of a player.
TF - 21 June 11, 2010
2158 An official’s judgment of a play MAY NOT be protested.
2159 A protest must be submitted in writing to the CYO Office within 48 hours of the completion of the contest involving the protest.
2160 No protests may be made by phone.
Protest Process
2161 The initiator of the protest must submit the written protest to the CYO Office. The protest must include:
1. date & site of the contest 2. league & teams involved 3. brief description of protest 4. signature of person submitting protest 5. signature of parish athletic director and/or parish commissioner
2162 The Director of CYO Athletics will collect as much information as possible from the coaches, officials and spectators from both sides. If the Director of Athletics is directly involved with the protest, the process will begin with number “5” above.
2163 The Director of Athletics, with advice from the Assistant Director and the CYO Commissioner for that sport, will make a ruling on the protest.
2164 Written appeal of a decision made by the Director of CYO Athletics must be submitted to the CYO Office within five days of the Director’s ruling.
2165 The CYO Advisory Committee will be contacted by the CYO Director of Athletics to be updated on the protest and/or appeal. The Committee may or may not request to meet with the parties involved to hear all sides of the protest.
2166 The CYO Advisory Committee will make a ruling.
2167 Once the CYO Advisory Committee has made a ruling, the case is closed.
2168 Complaints are also received by the diocesan CYO office. These are important to receive because some of them will enable the overall operation of the CYO program to grow; however they will not be necessarily dealt with in the same manner as a protest. No game will ever be forfeited due to a complaint.
CYO Website
TF - 22 June 11, 2010
2169 The diocesan CYO web site may be accessed through the Catholic Youth & School Services site at
2170 Parish Athletic Directors are encouraged to submit information for any open tournament to be posted on the CYO web site. This information should be submitted to the CYO office electronically.
2171 The CYO will not post any type of parish fundraising information on the web site.
CYO Privacy Policy
2172 Coaches’ information will not be provided to any fundraising companies.
2173 Coaches’ mailing labels may be provided to outside groups for the purpose of tournaments, out-of-season leagues, camps and special youth night opportunities.
2174 CYO participants’ information (name & address) may be provided to the Catholic high schools to announce camp information, but information will not be provided to any other outside groups.
Conclusion
2175 The development of our youth, both as student-athletes and good Christians, must always come first. All adults involved in the CYO program should always teach by example and always be more concerned about the development of these young people than any personal desire to win a game or a trophy. It will be at these moments that we will have ministered to our youth in the same way that Jesus did.
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION
Office of Evangelization and Catechesis
2176 The Office of Evangelization and Catechesis assists the local Church of the Diocese of Toledo in her mission of making Jesus Christ more widely known and loved, and of passing on the fullness of the Catholic Faith through catechesis and Christian formation. This Office oversees the religious formation of children, youth and adults in both parishes and schools. The work of the Office can be divided into five primary areas:
Evangelization Adult Faith Formation Catechetical Ministry in parishes and schools Catechetical Certification
TF - 23 June 11, 2010 Lay Ecclesial Ministry Training
2177 A primary instrument for carrying out this five-fold mission is the Mysterium Christi Diocesan Institute, formally established in the Diocese of Toledo on July 1, 2009. Contact the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis for a Handbook containing detailed information on the Mysterium Christi program or for the current seminar schedule.
Mysterium Christi Diocesan Institute
2178 The Mysterium Christi Diocesan Institute is a diocesan program of Catechetical Ministry training, Lay Ecclesial Ministry training, and Adult Faith Formation. Its formation is divided into five categories:
Catholic School Orientation (CSO) Catechetical Certification Professional Development Lay Ecclesial Ministry Adult Faith Formation
Catholic School Orientation
2179 All Catholic school principals and teachers new to the Diocese of Toledo, or new to working in a Catholic school, are required to complete the Catholic School Orientation (CSO) program within the first three years of employment.
Catechetical Certification
2180 Catechetical Certification is designed for those who engage in catechetical ministry in the diocese: principals, religion teachers in Catholic schools, parish catechetical leaders, parish catechists, youth ministers, campus ministers, etc.4
2181 There are three levels of diocesan Catechetical Certification: Basic, Advanced and Master.
2182 Basic Level certification is required for all principals, religion teachers in Catholic schools, salaried youth ministers, and salaried campus ministers.
2183 For volunteer parish catechists, youth ministers and campus ministers, pursuit of Basic Level is normative --- with the possibility of exceptions for good reason at the discretion of the pastor or catechetical leader.
4 See USCCB. National Directory for Catechesis. “Those who Catechize.” Chapter 8. TF - 24 June 11, 2010
2184 Advanced Level certification is required for parish catechetical leaders, high school religion teachers, and those who teach only religion at the junior high level.
Professional Development
2185 Effective September of 2010, an annual Professional Development requirement will begin for parish catechetical leaders, Catholic school principals and Catholic school religion teachers.
Lay Ecclesial Ministry
2186 Through the Mysterium Christi Diocesan Institute, two levels of formation for Lay Ministry are offered:
2187 Ministry Basics Seminars: These trainings provide basic introductions to specific ministry areas in a short amount of time. In collaboration with various offices of Catholic Center, these seminars provide training in such areas of Lay Ministry as: Evangelization, Baptismal Preparation/RCIA, Marriage Preparation, Liturgy/Worship Committee, Diversity/Inclusion Ministry, Prison Ministry, Catholic Social Teaching and Community Outreach, and Bereavement Ministry, etc.
2188 Three-year Lay Ministry Certificate program: For an in-depth and systematic formation, a three-year program of studies in Scripture, Theology and Lay Ministry is available. This program culminates in a diocesan Certificate in Theology and Lay Ecclesial Ministry.
Adult Faith Formation
2189 Two levels of Adult Faith Formation are offered:
Catholic Basics seminars: For those interested in an introductory overview or refresher in Catholic belief and practice, a good place to start would be the Catholic Basics seminars. These are all-day diocesan seminars offered around the diocese by presenters invited by our office.
The core of this series consists of five seminars providing overviews of Scripture, The Creed, Liturgy & Sacraments, Catholic Moral Teaching, and Prayer & Catholic Spirituality. Beyond these, additional seminars can be offered on special topics like apologetics for example.
Also recommended are seminars that focus on evangelization and catechesis. These trainings help to equip laity to be witnesses to Christ in their day-to-day family, work and civic lives.
Three-year certificate program in Theology and Evangelization: This program is designed for motivated adults who wish to deepen their understanding of our TF - 25 June 11, 2010 Catholic Faith in a systematic and structured program. (Those with little background in study of Catholic Faith should first complete Catholic Basics Seminars.
2190 For additional resources for Adult Faith Formation. Contact the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis.
Other Formation Opportunities
Second Year Principals Program
2191 In collaboration with Catholic Youth and School Services, the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis participates in a three year training program for principals. The first and third years focus on the principal’s role as managerial leader and instructional leader. The second year focuses on the principal’s role as religious leader of the school and is provided by the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis. Contact the Office for details.
New and Newer Parish Catechetical Leaders
2192 Each year the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis provides a training program for new and newer catechetical leaders. Contact the Office for details.
Leadership Institute
2193 Each August the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis collaborates with Catholic Youth and School Services to sponsor a Leadership Institute for all administrators who work with youth in parish religious education programs, in schools and in youth ministry.
2194 Participation at this Leadership Institute is very important since it provides an opportunity for parish leaders to gain knowledge regarding new diocesan directives and initiatives, as well as awareness of collaborative efforts at both the deanery and diocesan levels.
2195 If parishes are unable to pay for a catechetical leader to attend, there are grant monies available. Contact the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis for more information.
Doctrinal Standard
2196 The primary theological and catechetical reference points for all who teach the Catholic Faith must be Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition, especially as this
TF - 26 June 11, 2010 Tradition is articulated in the magisterial documents of the Church, in particular the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
2197 The focus of Catholic religious education, or catechesis, is upon the mystery of Christ and those Truths which comprise the Deposit of Catholic Faith and Morals.
2198 All leaders in catechetical ministry, and all who teach in programs or schools charged with passing on the Catholic Faith, are expected to uphold the doctrinal standard of the Catholic Church, which is articulated in the 1998 "Doctrinal Commentary on the Concluding Formula of the Profession Fidei" from the Sacred Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith and the 1998 “Ad Tuendam Fidem” of Pope John Paul II which amended Canon Law to reflect these clarifications.5 Note that Catholic doctrine includes both dogmas presented by solemn judgments, as well as the teachings of the ordinary and universal magisterium; and that “definitive” teachings regarding Faith and Morals are by their very nature also infallible.
Policy for Invited Speakers
2199 Regarding invited speakers at the parishes, schools and institutions of the Diocese of Toledo, the following statement from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops applies:
2200 “The Catholic community and Catholic institutions should not honor those who act in defiance of our fundamental moral principles. They should not be given awards, honors or platforms which would suggest support for their actions.”6
2201 The parishes, schools and institutions of the Diocese of Toledo are not to honor or provide a platform for those (whether Catholic or non-Catholic) who support or advocate for positions gravely contrary to Catholic doctrine on Faith and Morals. Neither are they to provide a platform for Catholics speakers who dissent from Catholic doctrine on Faith and Morals, or programs/ministries which promote such dissent.7
Religion Course of Study
Philosophy
2202 Religious education in the Toledo Diocese supports and assists parents in preparing their daughters and sons to respond to the presence of God. This response develops as all hear the message of the Gospel and seek to achieve a personal relationship
5 Canon 750 §2. 6 USCCB. Catholics in Political Life. 2004. 7 See “Catholic Doctrinal Standard” above. TF - 27 June 11, 2010 with Jesus Christ. This relationship enables each one to love and to serve God and others, thereby transforming self and society. The students are enabled to assimilate, grow and mature in the knowledge, values, and attitudes to which they are called by Jesus Christ and the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church.
Goals
2203 The students will come to know and understand the person, message, and mission of Jesus, and the history and basic teachings of the Roman Catholic Church.
2204 The students will be enabled and encouraged to integrate and give witness to the person, message, and mission of Jesus.
2205 Through the interdependence of parent(s), catechetical leader, catechist-minister, and pastor/pastoral leader, the students will be enabled and encouraged to develop a sense of belonging to a faith community and to celebrate their communal faith experience through meaningful liturgies.
Catechetical Content
2206 Parishes and schools are to utilize the Diocesan Religion Courses of Study in the development of their programs.
Assessment
2207 The diocesan assessment program for schools is administered in grades 5, 8, 12; the assessment program for parishes is administered in grades 4 and 7.
2208 Selection of Textbooks and other educational resources/media for religious education
2209 Parishes and schools must select Textbooks from the “Conformity Listing of Catechetical Texts and Series” from the USCCB Subcommittee on the Catechism.
2210 Should a parish or school desire to use supplemental texts that are not on the Conformity Listing, or use texts for a special topic or specific area of study not reflected on the Conformity Listing, such texts are to first be approved for use by the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis.
2211 Parishes and schools should choose those texts which best fit the diocesan course of study for religion. Sample textbooks are available for preview at the Diocesan Media Library.
The Children's Mass
2212 For Masses with children consult the principles explained in the "Directory for Masses with Children" from the Congregation for Divine Worship, 1973. The manner in which
TF - 28 June 11, 2010 pastors/pastoral leaders implement this directive is left to their discretion as long as the compulsory aspect of daily Mass is absent.
Policies for the Sacrament of Baptism
2213 "Baptism makes us members of the Body of Christ: 'Therefore .. we are members one of another.' Baptism incorporates us into the Church. From the baptismal font is born the one People of God of the New Covenant, which transcends all the natural or human limits of nations, cultures, races, and sexes: 'For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body."'8
Parents
2214 Parents must be prepared to bring up their child in the Catholic religion.
2215 They must be properly instructed in the meaning of the Sacrament of Baptism and the obligations attached to it. If this is lacking, Baptism should be put off and the reason for this action explained to the parents and discussed with them.9
Sponsors (godparents)
2216 Sponsors are designated by the one to be baptized, the parents or by the one who takes their place; or, in their absence, by the pastoral leader.
2217 They must understand their role and have a good-intention to perform it. Attending baptismal preparation sessions for the first child would be helpful
2218 They must be at least 16 years of age, unless a different age has been designated by the Diocesan Bishop or the pastoral leader for a good reason
2219 One sponsor must be a practicing Catholic who has received all of the Sacraments of Initiation and leads a life in harmony with the faith. Other Christians may serve as witnesses.10
2220 They cannot be bound by any canonical penalty legitimately imposed or declared.
2221 They cannot be the father or mother of the one to be baptized. It is the Catholic understanding that godparents, in a liturgical and canonical sense, should themselves be members of the Church or ecclesial Community in which the baptism is being celebrated. They do not merely undertake a responsibility for the Christian education of the person being baptized (or confirmed) as a relation or friend; they are also there as representatives of a community of faith, standing as guarantees of the candidate's faith and desire for ecclesial communion.
8 Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) 1267. 9 Canons 851, 868, and 874. 10 Canon 874. TF - 29 June 11, 2010 2222 Based on the common baptism and because of ties of blood or friendship, a baptized person who belongs to another ecclesial Community may be admitted as a witness to the baptism, but only together with a Catholic godparent. A Catholic may do the same for a person being baptized in another ecclesial Community.
2223 Because of the close communion between the Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Churches, it is permissible for a just cause for an Eastern Orthodox Christian to be a godparent together with a Catholic godparent, at the baptism of a Catholic infant or adult, so long as there is provision for the Catholic education of the person being baptized, and it is clear that the godparent is a suitable one.
2224 A Catholic is not forbidden to stand as a godparent in an Eastern Orthodox Church, if he/she is so invited. In this case, the duty of providing for the Christian education binds in the first place the godparent who belongs to the Church in which the child is baptized.
Policies for the Sacrament of Reconciliation or Penance
2225 Every child, whether enrolled in Catholic school or participating in the parish religious education program, upon coming to the age of reason will be catechized for the Sacrament of First Penance. Once First Penance has been received, the child is to be catechized for First Eucharist. If a child is not prepared to make First Penance, the reception of First Eucharist is to be delayed until such time as the child has received First Penance.
2226 Parents are to be involved in the preparation of their child for this sacrament.11
2227 Catechesis with parents/guardians should include:
an opportunity for parents/guardians to develop their own understanding and appreciation of the Sacrament of Reconciliation; an introduction to the history and theology of the Sacrament of Reconciliation and to the life of grace, covenant relationship, and the call to Christian discipleship; catechesis on sin, metanoia, conversion, sorrow for sin, penance or satisfaction for sin, and reconciliation; an explanation of moral, psychological, and faith development from infancy to adulthood with emphasis on childhood; an opportunity for parents/guardians to clarify their intentions in bringing their child to this sacrament;
11 Canon 914. USCCB, National Directory for Catechesis. 126. TF - 30 June 11, 2010 assurance that families live the sacramentality of reconciliation in daily life by developing trusting love, by asking and accepting forgiveness, by offering choices and helping each other accept consequences, by letting relationships mend and grow; opportunities to be engaged with their child in the catechesis for the sacrament; an explanation of the rite of Reconciliation in its various forms; assistance with judging their child's readiness and freedom in receiving the sacrament; encouragement to celebrate First Reconciliation with their child; encouragement to continue the developmental process of growing in morality and reconciliation and to celebrate the sacrament regularly and as a family.
2228 The catechesis of the children should include.
teaching and reflection on God's love and forgiveness; teaching and reflection on sin, reconciliation and amendment for sin; teaching and practice in the rite of Reconciliation in the individual and communal forms.
2229 A child is ready to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation when the child:
has a sense of relationship between purposeful right and wrong i.e., good choices and bad choices; is able to and desires to express sorrow; is able to describe wrong doing in his/her own words: knowing it is wrong and choosing to do it anyway.
2230 The decision regarding the child's readiness to celebrate this sacrament rests primarily with the parents and the catechist in consultation with the confessor and catechetical leader.
2231 There are a number of components of the program of preparation for First Reconciliation:
the catechesis in the Catholic school; the catechesis in the Parish Religious Education program; parent sessions; parent-student sessions.
TF - 31 June 11, 2010 2232 It is recommended that the immediate preparation for First Reconciliation provide special parent-student sessions that involve the students and parents of both the parish school and the religious education program. These augment but do not replace classroom catechesis.
2233 No certificate is to be issued for the celebration of Penance. No record may ever be kept of individuals celebrating this sacrament
Policies for the Sacrament of Eucharist
2234 Every child, whether enrolled in Catholic school or participating in the parish Religious Education program, upon coming to the age of reason, will be catechized for the Sacrament of Eucharist. It is required that the child first be catechized and receive Reconciliation before receiving the Eucharist.
2235 Parents are to attend a program of preparation to assist them in their role as primary educators. The length of this preparation shall be adapted to the needs of the parish as necessary to adequately assist parents in this important task. Catechesis should include the following:
an introduction to sacramental theology, including the life of grace; the history and theology of the Sacrament of Eucharist, including the Eucharistic Liturgy; the spirituality of the sacrament; the importance of the Eucharist as the heart of Catholic life; the role of parents as models of Eucharistic living; a deeper understanding of the Sacraments of Initiation; Parental right and privilege as well as their role and serious responsibility in preparing their child; Specific local details; e.g., dates for special celebrations, retreats, etc.
2236 If Eucharist is to be celebrated in a parish other than that of Baptism, the parent(s) must provide a certificate of Baptism from the parish where the child was baptized. The names of those children receiving First Eucharist should be entered in the parish Eucharistic register.
TF - 32 June 11, 2010 2237 The parish community should be apprised of and made a part of the preparation and celebration of First Eucharist, for this, too, is a celebration of initiation in the Christian community.
2238 There should be an opportunity for each child and her/his parents to meet with the pastor/pastoral leader or a member of the parish staff to discern the child's readiness for the sacrament.
2239 Catechesis for children celebrating the Sacrament of the Eucharist for the first time should include:
a belief in the person of Jesus, the main events in his life, death, and resurrection; a belief that the Eucharist is the real Body and Blood of Christ; an awareness of Eucharist as both a sacrifice and a sacred meal and memorial celebrated in community; an understanding of the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist and participation in the Mass appropriate to the child's age.
2240 In order to celebrate First Eucharist, the child is required to:
have an understanding of who Jesus is, including the main events in his life, death, and resurrection; be able to distinguish between the bread of the Eucharist and ordinary bread; have a desire and a devotion toward receiving the Eucharist according to his/her age.
2241 The decision as to the child's readiness to celebrate this sacrament in consultation with the pastor/pastoral leader rests primarily with the parents, the catechist, and parish catechetical leader.
Policies for the Sacrament of Confirmation of Children
2242 The Complimentary norm for the United States on Canon 891states that the Sacrament of Confirmation in the Latin Rite shall be conferred between the age of discretion and about sixteen years of age, within the limits determined by the Diocesan Bishop and with regard for the legitimate exceptions given in canon 891. As of June 2007, the age of Confirmation in the Diocese of Toledo is eighth grade through sixteen years of age with, for a just cause, the inclusion of seventh graders.12
12 Cf. Diocese of Toledo. Guide for the Preparation of the Confirmation Liturgy. TF - 33 June 11, 2010 2243 As the primary educators of their children, parents, as well as sponsors, are to participate in the catechesis of their children for Confirmation. The length of this preparation shall be adapted to the needs of the parish as necessary to adequately assist parents in this important task. Sponsors are invited and encouraged to participate in these sessions. The catechesis should include the following:
an introduction to sacramental theology including the life of grace; the history and theology of the Sacraments of Initiation and their inter- relatedness; the role of the Christian parent and sponsor, in conjunction with the Christian community, in nurturing faith and in preparing the child for Confirmation; an explanation of the rite of Confirmation; the integral role of service in the life of a Christian; the role of the Holy Spirit in the life of a Christian.
2244 In view of the contemporary pastoral practice and in conformity with the rite of Confirmation, it is desirable that the godparents at Baptism, if' available, also be a sponsor at Confirmation.
2245 If Confirmation is celebrated in a parish other than that of Baptism, the candidate must obtain a certificate of Baptism from the parish where he/ she was baptized. These should be requested well in advance of the date of Confirmation. Following the celebration of the sacrament, notice of the Confirmation should be sent to the parish of Baptism. The names of those Confirmed should be entered in the parish Confirmation register.
2246 Preparation is centered in the parish community; therefore, ideally students in parish religious education programs and Catholic school students are to be catechized together and celebrate the sacrament together. This catechesis should take place over a proper period of time as deemed necessary by the parish. The preparation should include the following:
catechesis on the theology of Confirmation: as a Sacrament of Initiation, intimately related to Baptism and Eucharist; as a renewal and strengthening of one's baptismal call to bear witness to Christ and to share in the mission of the Church; as a sacrament of being signed with the fullness of the Spirit; catechesis on the role of the Holy Spirit in the life of the Christian; catechesis on the integral role of service in the Christian life including opportunities for the candidates to offer service as well as theological reflection on this process; opportunities for involvement with adult members of the Christian community in order to be more fully integrated into the parish community; catechesis on the rite of Confirmation;
TF - 34 June 11, 2010 a time of retreat during which the candidates may prayerfully reflect on and discern their invitation and desire. to celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation; an opportunity for each candidate to meet with the pastor/pastoral leader or a member of the parish staff to discern their invitation and desire to be confirmed.
Children’s Catechumenate
2247 Guidelines for Children's Catechumenate programs are contained in the 1995 revised document, "Diocesan Policies for Sacramental Preparation.”
General Principles for the Celebration of the Sacraments with Persons with Disabilities
2248 By reason of their Baptism, all Catholics are equal in dignity in the sight of God and have the same divine calling.
2249 Catholics with disabilities have a right to participate in the sacraments as full functioning members of the local ecclesial community. Ministers are not to refuse the sacraments to those who ask for them at appropriate times, who are properly disposed and who are not prohibited by law from receiving them.
2250 Parish sacramental celebrations should be accessible to persons with disabilities and open to their full, active and conscious participation, according to their capacity. Pastoral ministers should not presume to know the needs of persons with disabilities, but rather they should consult with them and other advocates before making determinations about the accessibility of a parish's facilities and the availability of its programs, policies and ministries. These adaptations are an ordinary part of the liturgical life of the parish. While full accessibility may not always be possible for every parish, it is desirable that at least one fully accessible community be available in a given area. Parishes may, in fact, decide to collaborate in the provision of services to persons with disabilities.
2251 Since the parish is the center of the Christian experience for most Catholics, pastoral ministers should make every effort to determine the presence of all Catholics with disabilities who reside within a parish's boundaries. Special effort should be made to welcome those parishioners with disabilities who live in institutions or group homes and are unable to frequent their parish churches or participate in parish activities. However, pastoral ministers should remember that many persons with disabilities still reside with their families. Pastoral visitation, the parish census and the diverse forms of parish and diocesan social communication are just a few of the many ways in which the pastoral staff can work toward the inclusion of all parishioners in the parish's sacramental life:
2252 In accord with canon 777 §4 pastors are responsible to be as inclusive as possible in providing evangelization, catechetical formation and sacramental preparation for parishioners with disabilities. Persons with disabilities, their advocates and their families, as well as those knowledgeable in serving disabled persons can make a most
TF - 35 June 11, 2010 valuable contribution to these programs. Parish catechetical and sacramental preparation programs may need to be adapted for some parishioners with disabilities. Further, parishes should encourage persons with disabilities to participate in all levels of pastoral ministry; e.g., as care ministers, catechists, etc. Dioceses are encouraged to establish appropriate support services for pastors to facilitate the evangelization, catechetical formation and sacramental preparation for parishioners with disabilities.
2253 The creation of a fully accessible parish reaches beyond mere physical accommodation to encompass the `attitudes of all parishioners toward persons with disabilities. Pastoral ministers are encouraged to develop specific programs aimed at forming a community of believers known for its joyful inclusion of all of God's people around the table of the Lord.
2254 In the course of making pastoral decisions, it is inevitable that pastoral care workers will encounter difficult cases. Dioceses are encouraged to establish appropriate policies for handling such cases which respect the procedural and substantive rights of all involved, and which ensure the necessary provision of consultation.
Celebration of Particular Sacraments with Persons with Disabilities13
2255 Catholics with disabilities, as well as those who minister to or with them, often point out that pastoral practice with regard to the celebration of the sacraments varies greatly from diocese to diocese, even from parish to parish. Inconsistencies arise in such areas as the provision of sign language interpreters for persons who are deaf, in the accessibility of church facilities for persons with mobility problems, and in the availability of catechetical programs for persons with developmental and mental disabilities. Pastoral inconsistencies may occur in other areas as well.
2256 The inconsistencies in pastoral practice often arise from distinct yet overlapping causes. Some result from a misunderstanding about the nature of disabilities. Others arise from an uncertainty, about the appropriate application of Church law toward persons with disabilities. Others are born out of fear or misunderstanding. Still others are the result of a studied and honest acceptance of the realistic limitations of a parish's or diocese's available resources.
2257 The Bishops of the United States offer the "Guidelines for the Celebration of the Sacraments With Persons With Disabilities" in order to give a more concrete expression to our long-standing concern for "realistic provision" for the means of access to full sacramental participation for Catholic persons with disabilities. While they do not address every conceivable situation that may arise in pastoral practice, the guidelines present a set of general principles to provide access to the sacraments for persons with disabilities. Diocesan staff, pastoral leaders, catechists, parishioners, health care workers and all those who minister to or with Catholics with disabilities are
13 Taken from Origins, June 29, 1995; Vol. 25: No. 7. Used with permission.
TF - 36 June 11, 2010 invited and encouraged to reflect upon and accept these guidelines in their continuing effort to bring Christ's healing message and call to justice to the world.
Baptism
2258 Through the Sacrament of Baptism the faithful are incorporated into Christ and into his Church. They are formed into God's people and obtain forgiveness of all their sins. They become a new creation and are called, rightly, the children of God.
2259 Because it is the sacrament of universal salvation, Baptism is to be made available to all who freely ask for it, are properly disposed and are not prohibited by law from receiving it. Baptism may be deferred only when there is no reason for hoping that the person will be brought up in the Catholic religion. Disability, of itself, is never a reason for deferring Baptism. Persons who lack the use of reason are to be baptized provided at least one parent or guardian consents to it.
2260 So that Baptism may be seen as a sacrament of the Church's faith and of admittance into the people of God, it should be celebrated ordinarily in the parish church on a Sunday, or if possible at the Easter Vigil. The Church, made present in the local community, has an important role to play in the Baptism of all of its members. Before and after the celebration of the sacrament, the baptized have the right to the love and help of the community.
2261 Either personally or through others, the pastoral leader is to see to it that the parents of an infant who is disabled, or those who take the place of the parents, are properly instructed as to the meaning of the Sacrament of Baptism and the obligations attached to it. If possible, either the pastor/pastoral leader or a member of the parish community should visit with the family, offering them the strength and support of the community which rejoices at the gift of new life and which promises to nurture the faith of its newest member. It is recommended that preparation programs for Baptism gather several families together so that they may commonly be formed by pastoral direction and prayer, and so that they may be strengthened by mutual support.
2262 If the person to be baptized is of catechetical age, the Rite of Christian Initiation may be adapted according to need.
2263 A sponsor is to be chosen who will assist the newly baptized in Christian initiation. Sponsors have a special role in fostering the faith life of the baptized person. As such, they are to be chosen and prepared accordingly. Persons with disabilities may be sponsors for these Sacraments of Initiation.
TF - 37 June 11, 2010 Confirmation
2264 Those who have been baptized continue on the path of Christian initiation through the Sacrament of Confirmation. In this way they receive the Holy Spirit, conforming them more perfectly to Christ and strengthening them so that they may bear witness to Christ for the building up of his Body in faith and love.
2265 Parents, those who care for persons with disabilities and shepherds of souls, especially pastor/pastoral leaders, are to see to it that the faithful who have been baptized are properly instructed to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation and to approach it at the appropriate time. The Diocesan Bishop is obliged to see that the Sacrament of Confirmation is conferred on his subjects who properly and reasonably request it.
2266 All baptized, unconfirmed Catholics who possess the use of reason may receive the Sacrament of Confirmation if they are suitably instructed, properly disposed and able to renew their baptismal promises. Persons who because of developmental or mental disabilities may never attain the use of reason are to be encouraged either directly or, if necessary, through their parents or guardian, to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation at the appropriate time.
2267 Confirmation is to be conferred on the faithful between the age of an eighth-grade student and 16 years of age, within the limits determined by the Diocesan Bishop, or when there is a danger of death or in the judgment of the minister a grave cause urges otherwise.
2268 A sponsor for the one to be confirmed should be present. The sponsor assists the confirmed person on the continuing path of Christian initiation. For this reason, it is desirable that the one who undertook the role of sponsor at Baptism be the sponsor for Confirmation.
Eucharist
2269 The Eucharist is the most august sacrament, in which Christ the Lord himself is contained, offered and received, and by which the Church constantly lives and grows. It is the summit and the source of all Christian worship and life, signifying and effecting the unity of the people of God, providing spiritual nourishment for the recipient and achieving the building up of the Body of Christ. The celebration of the Eucharist is the center of the entire Christian life.
2270 Parents, those who take the place of parents and pastors are to see to it that children who have reached the use of reason are correctly prepared and are nourished by the Eucharist as early as possible. Pastor/Pastoral leaders are to be vigilant lest any
TF - 38 June 11, 2010 children come to the Holy Banquet who have not reached the use of reason or whom they judge are not sufficiently disposed. It is important to note, however, that the criterion for reception of Holy Communion is the same for persons with developmental and mental disabilities as for all persons, namely that the person be able to distinguish the Body of Christ from ordinary food, even if this recognition is evidenced through manner, gesture or reverential silence rather than verbally. Pastors/ pastoral leaders are encouraged to consult with parents, those who take the place of parents, diocesan personnel involved with disability issues, psychologists, religious educators and other experts in making their judgment. If it is determined that a parishioner who is disabled is not ready to receive the sacrament, great care is to be taken in explaining the reasons for this decision. Cases of doubt should be resolved in favor of the right of the baptized person to receive the sacrament. The existence of a disability is not considered in and of itself as disqualifying a person from receiving the Eucharist.
2271 Eucharistic celebrations are often enhanced by the exercise of the diverse forms of ministry open to the laity. In choosing those who will be invited to use their gifts in service to the parish community, the parish pastoral staff should be mindful of extending Christ's welcoming invitation to qualified parishioners with disabilities.
Reconciliation
2272 In the Sacrament of Reconciliation, the Christian faithful obtain from the mercy of God pardon for their sins. At the same time they are reconciled with the Church, which they have wounded by their sins and which works for their conversion by charity, example and prayer.
2273 Only those who have the use of reason are capable of committing serious sin. Nevertheless, even small children and persons with mental disabilities often are conscious of committing acts that are sinful to some degree and may experience a sense of guilt and sorrow. As long as the individual is capable of having a sense of contribution for having committed sin, even if he or she cannot describe the sin precisely in words, the person may receive sacramental absolution. Those with profound mental disabilities who cannot experience even minimal contrition may be invited to participate in penitential services with the rest of the community to the extent of their ability.
2274 Catholics who are deaf should have the opportunity to confess to a priest able to communicate with them in sign language if sign language is their primary means of communication. They may also confess through an approved sign language interpreter of their choice. The interpreter is strictly bound to respect the seal of confession. When no priest with signing skills is available, nor sign language interpreter requested, Catholics who are deaf should be permitted to make their confession in writing. The written materials are to be returned to the penitent or otherwise properly destroyed.
TF - 39 June 11, 2010 2275 In the case of individuals with poor communication skills, sorrow for sin is to be accepted even if this repentance is expressed through some gesture rather than verbally. In posing questions and in the assignment of penances, the confessor is to proceed with prudence and discretion, mindful that he is at once judge and healer, minister of justice as well as of mercy.
Formation for Chastity and Human Sexuality
2276 The most recent statement from the US Bishops is “Catechetical Formation in Chaste Living” (2008). All leaders in catechetical, youth and campus ministry, and all catechists and Catholic school teachers should be familiar with this document. It sets forth in outline form those Truths which are essential to an authentically Catholic formation in chastity and human sexuality.
2277 All resources (whether texts or other media) used in formation for chastity and human sexuality must be selected from the “Conformity Listing of Catechetical Texts and Series” from the USCCB, or specifically approved by the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis. Contact the Office for recommended resources
2278 Formation for chastity and human sexuality must always be presented from an authentically Catholic perspective in the religious education programs of the diocese. Regarding Catholic schools, should it become necessary that such matters are touched upon in classes other than religion class, this is to be done in a manner entirely consistent with Catholic teaching. Texts and other resources/media used are to reflect a Catholic perspective, particularly regarding contemporary issues and cultural trends (for example: pre-marital sexual activity, contraception, abortion, homosexual acts, same sex marriage, sexually transmitted diseases, etc.).
Parental Involvement
2279 "We believe that education in human sexuality is a cooperative venture, in which parents or guardians, as primary educator, are assisted by schools and church and the wider society."14
Supplementing Public School Programs
2280 If the parish religious education program sees the need to present the Catholic position on the information youth are receiving in the public school regarding chastity and human sexuality, contact the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis for recommended resources.
Special Needs Students
2281 It is recommended that, wherever possible, students with special needs be mainstreamed into parish religious education programs.
14 USCCB. Human Sexuality. 1991. Cf. USCCB. Catechetical Formation in Chaste Living. “The role of Parents/Guardians.” 2008. p. 18-19. TF - 40 June 11, 2010
Home-Based Religious Education
Background
2282 A time-honored tradition within the Catholic Church is the "handing on" of the faith in the home by the example and instruction of parents to their children. Catholic schools and parish schools of religion came into existence to assist families in their responsibility for the education of their children. Some parents, however, choose neither Catholic schools nor parish schools of religion, and thus provide religious instruction and sacramental preparation at home.
2283 Through the years, the Church has always called parents to be the "primary educators" of their children. In his 1994 "Letter to Families," Pope John Paul II wrote: "Parents are the first and most important educators of their own children, and they also possess a fundamental competence in this area; they are educators because they are parent.”.15
2284 The Second Vatican Council in its Declaration on Christian Education also affirmed the "primary and inalienable right and duty" of parents to educate their children. In the "Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern World" the council fathers go on to say: "By their very nature the institution of matrimony itself and conjugal love are ordained for the procreation and education of children ... Graced with the dignity and office of fatherhood and motherhood, parents will energetically acquit themselves of a duty which devolves primarily on them; namely, education and especially religious education."16
2285 The Catechism of the Catholic Church says that parents have the first responsibility for the education of their children: "They bear witness to this responsibility first by creating a home where tenderness, forgiveness, respect, fidelity and … service, are the rule. The home is well suited for education in the virtues."17
2286 Catholic home educators have taken these teachings to heart. They have responded with their time, attention, and love, giving their days over to the personal care and tutoring of their children. Yet they do not labor alone. Catechesis is the work of the whole Church, and the members have different responsibilities.18 Parents are their children's primary educators, but not their only educators.
15 John Paul II. Letter to Families. 16. 16 Catholic Church. Gaudium et spes. 48. 17 Catechism of the Catholic Church 2223. 18 See Catechesi Tradendae 16. TF - 41 June 11, 2010 2287 The Church calls herself mother and teacher. As teacher, the Church is the guarantor of the soundness of Christian doctrine whenever that doctrine is conveyed. Pope John Paul II urged bishops to "let the concern to foster active and effective catechesis yield to no other care whatever in any way."19 He directed bishops to take on the "chief management of catechesis," while at the same time surrounding themselves with competent and trustworthy assistants. A diocesan bishop serves, all catechists, whether in the school, the parish, or the home, by offering them clear Catholic doctrine and ensuring the soundness of their teaching.
2288 In this service, pastor/pastoral leaders, according to Pope John Paul II, are "the immediate assistants" of their Diocesan Bishops and are urged to "neglect nothing with a view to a well-organized and well-oriented catechetical effort."20 Because of this charge, pastoral leaders have the chief responsibility for fostering, guiding, and coordinating catechesis canon 777 clearly states: "In accord with the norms established by the Diocesan Bishop, the pastor is to make particular provision:
that suitable catechesis is given for the celebration of the sacraments; that children are properly prepared for the first reception of the sacraments of Penance and Most Holy Eucharist and the Sacrament of Confirmation by means of a catechetical formation given over an appropriate period of time; that children are more fruitfully and deeply instructed through catechetical formation after the reception of First Communion; that catechetical formation also be given to those handicapped in body or mind insofar as their condition permits; that the faith of young people and adults be fortified, enlightened and developed through various means and endeavors."
2289 Therefore, all engaged in the catechetical ministry are obligated to fulfill their duties in cooperation with the Diocesan Bishop and pastor/pastoral leader in this single commission to educate in Christ's name.21
Guidelines for Parents
2290 Parents have the responsibility to register their household with the parish and state their wish to catechize their own children.
2291 Parents are responsible to contact and to meet with the pastor/pastoral leader and catechetical leader to discuss a suitable catechetical plan.
2292 Parents are to be offered the diocesan Religion Course of Study and receive suggestions for appropriate catechetical resources from the parish. The Diocesan
19 Catechesi Tradendae 63. 20 Catechesi Tradendae 64. 21 Canons 774, 776. TF - 42 June 11, 2010 Media Library is another valuable resource to help supplement their educational efforts.
2293 Parents and children are encouraged to participate in parish liturgies and/or other events prepared specifically for children and their families.
2294 Parents are responsible to meet with the pastor and catechetical leader or their designee periodically to discuss the progress of their catechetical efforts.
2295 Parents are responsible to present their children for the reception of the sacraments and to be in dialogue with the pastor/pastoral leader and catechetical leader to ensure that the children are properly prepared:
2296 Since sacraments are community celebrations and not private events of piety, and Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist are Sacraments of Initiation into the community, parents should be made aware that preparation includes parish community involvement.
2297 The family will be apprised of the applicable sections of the 1995 Diocesan Policies for Sacramental Preparation.
Guidelines For Pastor/Pastoral Leader and Catechetical Leaders
2298 The emergence of home-schooling calls forth new approaches from those in catechetical leadership in recognizing this area in education so that the parents and their children will feel welcome, wanted, and included in all pastoral and sacramental activities and ministries of the parish.
2299 The pastor/pastoral leader and catechetical leader must meet with the parents and assist them in the following ways:
in choosing suitable catechetical materials, including text books and other appropriate resources; in providing them with the diocesan Religion Course of Study and encouraging them to follow it; in providing them training in the use of the catechetical materials they have chosen; by inviting them to attend any parent meetings, liturgies, and prayer services prepared to include all the children of the parish.
2300 The pastor/pastoral leader or the catechetical leader must meet with the parents who present their children for the reception of the sacraments in order to ensure that the children are properly prepared.
2301 Since sacraments are community celebrations and not private events of piety, and Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist are Sacraments of Initiation into the community,
TF - 43 June 11, 2010 parents should be made aware that preparation and celebration includes parish community involvement.
2302 Applicable sections. of the 1995 Diocesan Sacramental Policies will be presented and discussed with the parents. The pastor/pastoral leader and catechetical leader and the parents should agree on a regular means of staying in contact as well as on a process of evaluating the progress of the children.
Personnel
Director of Religious Education (DRE)
2303 The director of religious education designs, develops, directs and evaluates the total parish religious education program.
2304 Competencies
Program Development Catechist Development Administration and Management
2305 Education (one of the following)
MA in Theology/Religious Education or a related theological field. Six (6).credits or 60 clock hours of in-service distributed over the following areas (if not represented in the MA): administration, supervision, catechetics, educational methods. MA in Education or Education Administration. Twenty-four (24) semester credits in Theology and Catechetics which include courses in the following areas: Old Testament and New Testament, Liturgy/Sacraments, Systematics, Morality. MA in an unrelated field. Twenty-four (24) semester credits in Theology and Catechetics which include courses in the following areas: Old Testament and New Testament, Liturgy/ Sacraments. Six (6) credits or sixty (60) clock hours of in-service distributed over the following areas (if not represented in the MA): administration, supervision, catechetics, educational methods.
2306 Catechist Recognition
Recognition as a catechist at the advanced level or its equivalent.
2307 Experience
Three (3) years of supervised catechetical experience and one (1) year administrative experience (paid or volunteer).
2308 Diocesan Policy on Sexual Abuse-Training TF - 44 June 11, 2010
Participation in the educational sessions on the Diocesan Policy in Response to Child Abuse and Adult Sexual Misconduct (Protecting Youth and Those who Serve Them).
2309 Job Description
Directors of religious education (DRE’s) have a variety of duties and tasks. Their primary tasks are training, evaluating and encouraging the ongoing development of catechists. Other duties and tasks include:
articulating a vision of religious education within the parish community; generating appropriate goals and strategies to implement the vision; developing and administering programs of religious education for children and youth; assisting the parish community in the recruitment of catechists; acquiring and maintaining appropriate and sufficient resources for religious education; collaborating with staff and other parish ministers, communicating with the parish community; administering the budget for religious education; evaluating the programs of religious education; pursuing his/her own ongoing professional development.
Coordinator Of Religious Education (CRE)
2310 The coordinator of religious education (CRE) conducts and coordinates one or more areas of the total parish religious education program.
2311 Competencies
Program Coordination Coordination of Catechist Development Management
2312 Education (one of the following)
BA in Theology/Religious Education or a related Theological field, and six (6) credits or sixty (60) clock hours of in-service distributed over the following areas (if not represented in the BA): administration, catechetics, and educational methods.
TF - 45 June 11, 2010 BA/BS in Education with twenty-four (24) semester hours of college in theology and catechetics which includes courses in the following areas: Scripture, Liturgy/Sacraments, Systematic Theology and Morality. BA/BS in unrelated field or no college degree with twenty-four (24) semester hours of college credit in theology and catechetics (as in #2 above) and six (6) credits or sixty (60) hours of in-service distributed over the following areas: administration, educational methods and catechetics.
2313 Catechist Recognition
Recognition as a catechist at the advanced level or its equivalent.
2314 Experience
Three (3) years of supervised catechetical experience and one (1) year administrative experience (paid or volunteer).
2315 Diocesan Policy on Sexual Abuse-Training
Participation in the educational sessions on the Diocesan Policy in Response to Child Abuse and Adult Sexual Misconduct (Protecting Youth and Those who Serve Them).
Chairperson of the Religion Department in a Catholic Secondary School
2316 Qualifications
A strong background in Catholic theology and religious education - an M.A. or its equivalent Upholds the teachings of the Church dictated by the Magisterium Knowledge of current theological trends Potential to direct a staff and work with young people Freedom to be involved on a full-time basis in the school effort
2317 Duties
Responsibility for the total Religion Program of the school Co-responsibility with the principal-minister/pastor/pastoral leader (where applicable) for the theological direction of the total curriculum, and in particular for ensuring that diocesan policies regarding the Catholic doctrinal standard, invited speakers, the selection of texts, and formation for chastity and human sexuality are followed (see above sections concerning those topics). Co-responsibility for selecting the religion staff; final selection lies with the principal-minister
TF - 46 June 11, 2010 Responsibility with the principal-minister to insure that all religion teachers are certified according to the requirements set forth by the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis. Responsibility for implementing the diocesan Religion Course of Study in harmony with the curriculum director and the needs of the school Responsibility for having a working knowledge of modern religious education trends and diocesan guidelines Teaching as many Religion classes as the time demands and financial needs allow
2318 Responsibilities
Overseeing the school's liturgical programs Responsibility for the school's spiritual formation program and the students' participation in the program Co-responsibility for the communication of Christian values in the total effort Responsibility for inculcating into the entire staff an appreciation for the main religious education effort and their part in it
2319 Goal/ideal for the Diocese of Toledo in Assigning Priests in our Catholic High Schools
2320 Frequent interaction of a priest with the adolescent community of the high school is an important value for the Church.
2321 "Frequent interaction" means ideally a full-time position with a minimum assignment of three years.
2322 The priest has a responsibility in serving as a liaison between the local parish(es) and the school.
2323 In the case of parish or inter-parochial high schools, the pastoral leader assigns the priest to the school full or part-time.
2324 The priest's assignment must be pre-arranged and detailed by all persons involved: Personnel Board, the pastor/pastoral leader, the principal-minister, and the priest himself.
2325 Priests who interact need the freedom to function effectively.
2326 A prior parish assignment-is highly suggested before such a full-time position is offered.
TF - 47 June 11, 2010 2327 "Frequent interaction" does not necessarily mean:
full time teaching, principal-minister, department chairperson, but being responsible for the religious formation of the school community in cooperation with the school principal-minister
2328 Professional training is required for such a specialized ministry.
2329 Such training could be obtained during a part-time position with professional supervision.
2330 A priest in this position must adhere to the policies of the school and be accountable to the principal-minister and then to the pastoral leader.
2331 Contact with a worshipping adult community is strongly recommended.
2332 Schools are free to secure their own priests on whatever terms .they want to work out with the priest and his pastoral leader in order to meet their needs.
Youth Ministry
The Goals of Youth Ministry22
2333 The three goals are interdependent and equally important. They assist parishes to respond to the needs of young people and involve young people to share their gifts with the larger community. They will assist in recognizing youth as the young church of today.
2334 To empower young people to live as disciples of Jesus Christ in our world today,
2335 To draw young people to responsible participation in the life, mission, and work of the Catholic faith community,
2336 To foster the total personal and spiritual growth of each young person.
Components of a Comprehensive Ministry
2337 The eight components provide the church with fundamental ways to minister effectively with adolescents.
1. The ministry of advocacy engages the Church to examine its priorities and practices to determine how well young people are integrated into the life, mission, and work of the Catholic community.
22 USCCB Document “Renewing The Vision” A Framework for Catholic Youth Ministry. 1997 TF - 48 June 11, 2010 2. The ministry of catechesis helps adolescents develop a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ and the Christian community, and increase their knowledge of the core content of the Catholic faith. 3. The ministry of community life builds an environment of love, support, appreciation for diversity, and judicious acceptance that models Catholic principles; develops meaningful relationships; and nurtures Catholic faith. 4. The ministry of evangelization shares the good news of the reign of God and invites young people to hear about the Word made Flesh. 5. The ministry of justice and service nurtures in young people a social consciousness and a commitment to a life of justice and service rooted in their faith in Jesus Christ, in the Scriptures, and in Catholic social teaching. It empowers young people to work for justice by concrete efforts to address the causes of human suffering; and infuses the concepts of justice, peace, and human dignity into all ministry efforts. 6. The ministry of leadership development calls forth, affirms, and empowers the diverse gifts, talents, and abilities of adults and young people in our faith communities for comprehensive ministry with adolescents. 7. The ministry of pastoral care is a compassionate presence in imitation of Jesus' care of people, especially those who were hurting and in need. 8. The ministry of prayer and worship celebrates and deepens young people's relationship with Jesus Christ through the bestowal of grace, communal prayer and liturgical experiences. It awakens their awareness of the spirit at work in their lives. It incorporates young people more fully into the sacramental life of the Church, especially Eucharist. It nurtures the personal prayer life of young people and it fosters family rituals and prayer.
Programs and Events
Diocesan Programs and Events
2338 Sponsored by the Diocesan Office of Youth, Young Adult and Campus Ministry are open to all youth in the Diocese and are described below. For information on specific programs, contact the Youth, Young Adult and Campus Ministry Office.
2339 Summer Youth Conference -The Youth Conference is a three-day event that gathers youth from all parishes within the Diocese of Toledo. Its purpose is to help form youth through community building activities, informative break-out sessions, to foster Christian leadership, and to facilitate a broader experience of Church. National performers and speakers and featured along with local guest presenters. High energy, Catholic Christian music adds to the fun and excitement of the weekend.
2340 The Walk - A Diocesan tradition for over 40 years. It is held on Good Friday. Parishioners from throughout the diocese are invited to participate in a walk to recall the walk of Jesus to Calvary, His passion and death. It takes place in different deaneries of the Diocese. Local youth ministers along with the Diocesan Youth
TF - 49 June 11, 2010 Council plan and execute the day. It concludes at an area church with the Good Friday Service.
2341 March for Life – Remembering the Roe v. Wade decision on abortion. The YYACM Office sponsors a bus taking a group of teens and adults to attend and participate in the Rally and March each January in Washington,
2342 Catholic Schools Week – A national musical performer is brought into the diocese and visits Catholic schools offering a one hour presentation during the day. Each evening a family oriented performance takes place at different area parishes.
2343 FIRE – A spirit-filled rally held each November for those junior high youth preparing to celebrate the sacrament of Confirmation. It includes guest performers and presenters, music, lunch and Mass.
2344 Teens Encounter Christ (TEC) - A three-day retreat experience for high school juniors, seniors and freshman in college. It is affiliated with the National TEC Movement. TEC is held at the Our Lady of Consolation Retreat House in Carey, Ohio. It focuses on the life, death and resurrection of Christ.
Formation
Diocesan Policy on Sexual Abuse Training
2345 Participation in the educational sessions on the Diocesan Policy on Response to Child Abuse and Adult Sexual Misconduct is required for employees and volunteers involved in youth ministry.
2346 Youth Ministers' Retreat -Youth, Young Adult and Campus Ministry sponsors an annual retreat day for youth ministers and all persons who work with youth. It is held in February or March.
2347 Certification – Basic certification is required for all salaried parish coordinators of youth ministry. The program is administered through the Catechetical Ministry Office of the Diocese.
Youth
Diocesan Youth Council (DYC)
2348 The Youth Council is a group of high-school students representing six designated geographic areas of the diocese. This Council plays a significant role in the organization and implementation of four events…FIRE, the March for Life, the Walk, and the Summer Youth Conference. In addition they have an overnight retreat experience in the Fall and meet on a monthly basis. They also receive both spiritual and leadership development throughout the year.
Young Adult Ministry
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Mission
2349 Assist and support parishes and campuses to empower youth, young adults, and college students to live as disciples of Jesus Christ by fostering a deeper understanding of and participation in the Catholic faith community.
Goals
2350 Assist parishes in meeting the needs of young adults.
2351 Work with pastoral staff and young adults of parishes to assess the needs of individual parishes.
2352 Use the four goals in “Sons and Daughters of Light” as a pastoral plan for ministry with young adults.
1. Connecting young adults with Jesus Christ. 2. Connecting young adults with the Church. 3. Connecting young adults with the mission of the Church in the world. 4. Connecting young adults with peer community.
2353 Help young adults acknowledge their gifts and practice stewardship in the Church.
Provide workshops on discerning ones vocation and gifts. Educate young adults on the many faces of stewardship.
2354 Create and gather young adult ministry resources for use in parishes
Have materials available for young adults to borrow. In-service young adults in the use of these materials.
2355 Help young adults become actively involved in their parishes
Educate young adults to the “how” and the importance of connecting with a parish. Invite parish leaders to reach out to young adults
2356 Provide leadership training opportunities for young adults.
2357 Train young adults to help implement various diocesan programs:
Theology on Tap
TF - 51 June 11, 2010 Annual Young Adult Retreat Night of Wisdom, etc.
2358 Develop leadership skills by assisting with diocesan events.
Campus Ministry
Mission
2359 Assist and support parishes and campuses to empower youth, young adults, and college students to live as disciples of Jesus Christ by fostering a deeper understanding of and participation in the Catholic faith community.
Goals
2360 Maintain a Catholic presence on campuses that have campus ministers (salaried or volunteer) and work toward creating a Catholic presence on colleges that are without.
Meet parish leaders informing them of campus ministry needs in their parish area. Maintain a chain of accountability, evaluation and supervision for campus ministers, not employed by university parishes.
2361 Create and encourage opportunities for professional growth among campus ministers.
Hold diocesan campus minister meetings and in-services. Encourage connections with national organizations and attendance at local, state and national conferences. Keep campus ministers aware of current campus ministry news.
2362 Offer presentations to high school seniors to prepare them for their first year on college campus.
Select and train college students to assist with these presentations. Market the program to high school religion teachers, campus ministers, parish youth ministers, pastors, etc.
2363 Pursue diocesan wide college events.
Combine retreats, leadership training, service projects, discussions, speakers, concerts, etc. Disseminate information to all campuses regarding various programs being offered at other colleges and universities.
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2364 Daily promote the tenets of campus ministry outlined in the USCCB document “Empowered by the Spirit: Campus Ministry Faces the Future.”
Forming faith communities. Appropriating the faith. Forming Christian conscience. Educating for justice. Facilitating personal development. Developing leaders for the future.
TF - 53 June 11, 2010 APPENDIX O
THE PARISH AND ATHLETICS by James J. Bacik
A. A parish sports program can be a useful part of the important parish task of forming community.
1. Parishes are usually too large to be authentic communities as a whole, but they must promote the life of various smaller communities.
2. Team sports do provide people with some feeling for community. In other words, parish athletic teams deserve the support of pastoral leaders just as do other communities which engage the time and energy of parishioners. 3. This highlights the need to stress teamwork and the subordination of personal goals to team goals. This should be fostered by coaches and parents.
4. It is in the context that parents should be encouraged to support decisions of coaches and not to be disruptive influences.
5. It might be possible to give athletic teams a special role in parish liturgies on certain occasions: for example, a team could serve as readers, ushers and so on at a Sunday liturgy.
B. Parishes could see athletics as one means of facilitating the personal development of parishioners.
1. Parishes are responsible for the personal growth of parishioners in all dimensions of their existence: physical, emotional, imaginative, intellectual, moral, religious and Christian.
2. Athletics can be helpful in many of these areas. This is obviously true in the physical dimension since sports often motivate people to get in better shape and hone their skills. Sports also teach people how to handle their emotions such as anger, frustration and sadness as well as the joys of success.
3. Success in athletics is often a matter of skillful use of imagination and intelligence. Sports call for playing by the rules and have the power to open up the religious dimension of life.
4. Coaches who are able to give individual attention to athletes are often very influential on them especially if they place the well-being of the person above winning.
5. It is important to teach youngsters to compete against their own potential and not simply against other persons. It is possible for both coaches and parents to TF - 54 June 11, 2010 teach this important lesson. Players should be praised for good effort and progress even if this does not include success or victory.
6. This raises the whole question of allowing all players on teams to participate and not just restricting playing time to the best players. This point would require a great deal of discussion with coaches, parents and players. There is another truth to consider: in real life those with greater skills usually achieve greater success.
7. It is important for coaches and parents to help youngsters deal with their failures. This requires prudence and sober realism. Failure is part of life. Youngsters should not be totally shielded from this reality. They should be taught resiliency and the ability to persevere and bounce back.
8. Attention should be given to any gender differences that may influence the personal development of boys and girls through sports.
9. Sports do not have to promote violence or destructive, competitive spirit. They can promote a healthy sense of competition and a sense of team work.
10. There is a proper Christian humanism which praises excellence and which fosters a healthy sense of competition. This is opposed to those who believe that all competition, rating, and judging is destructive. That philosophy does not prepare young people for the real world.
C. Parish athletic programs can serve the important function of developing leaders who have a sense of service.
1. Parishes are to encourage the charisms of all parishioners.
2. Coaching teams and organizing sports are important ways of living out the Gospel and spreading the kingdom in the world.
3. Coaches should be made to feel that they are a part of the parish leadership team. They should be encouraged to see their service as part of their Christian calling and a contribution to the well being of the parish.
4. Coaches should be reminded of the great potential they have in influencing young people for the good. Their personal example is crucial. They must exercise good sportsmanship and proper respect for umpires and referees.
5. Parishes could help develop the leadership qualities of coaches and those involved in athletics in a variety of ways: simple reading material could be put in their hands; there could be a retreat for them or a special blessing for them at Mass. Whatever the means it is important to provide public recognition of their contribution and to make them feel that they are carrying out the Christian task of witnessing to the Gospel in the world.
TF - 55 June 11, 2010 6. Coaches who are not able to treat the youngsters with respect should either be taught this virtue or be removed from coaching duties.
7. Athletics are also the way of developing leadership skills in the young people. The custom of having captains of teams can be helpful in this regard. Coaches and parents could offer guidance to those chosen for these roles.
D. Parish athletic programs should further the task of promoting justice in the world.
1. Parishes cannot just be turned in on themselves but must be concerned with transforming the world into a more humane place.
2. Parishes should provide equal opportunities for boys & girls.
3. Coaches & participants should develop respect for referees, umpires and so on.
4. Victory and defeat should bring out proper sportsmanship, including due respect for the opponent.
5. Parish money spent on athletic programs should be fitting and proportionate in relationship to the rest of the budget. Athletics should not dominate other parish programming for young people. There should be other programs for them to express and develop other talents and for the development of the more explicitly religious aspects of life through activities such as retreats.
E. Parishes should promote athletics as one of the many ways of developing a distinctive Catholic imagination.
1. Parishes need to develop a sense of identity, a pride in belonging.
2. Parish athletic programs can help participants gain a sense of pride and connection with the parish. This is also true with parents and coaches.
3. It is good to celebrate the efforts made throughout the season. This could be done through a concluding banquet or some other means. This helps to engender a sense of value of celebrating effort and not just success.
4. Coaches can become role models, examples of full Christian life.
5. Priests and sisters who take an interest in athletics can appear as more credible role models to young people.
6. Athletics could be linked with other parish formation programs. For example there could be a retreat for members of a team or a prayer service at the end of the season.
7. We should always remember the power of the great Catholic symbols and stories. Notre Dame football functions this way in the Catholic consciousness.
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8. While promoting Catholic identity, athletics should also retain an ecumenical and inner-faith sensitivity. This involves respect for teams representing other traditions.
TF - 57 June 11, 2010 APPENDIX P
CYO TEAM PRAYER
(Members & coaches from both teams are to meet with officials prior to the start of each CYO athletic event and together recite this prayer at that time)
Lord God, we thank you for bringing us together today and ask that you watch over and guide us:
Help the athletes use their talents to the fullest and remain injury-free.
Help the coaches to teach these young athletes not only about the game, but more importantly about being good Christians.
Help the game officials do their best to enforce the rules and remain fair at all times.
And help the spectators to be considerate of all players, coaches, officials and each other.
Thank you for giving all of us the opportunity to put our faith into action today.
Amen.
TF - 58 June 11, 2010 APPENDIX Q
CYO Forms
Please see following pages for forms.
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TF - 75 June 11, 2010 Diocese of Toledo Expectations for All those who Minister to Youth The Diocese of Toledo proclaims the good news with dedicated and faithful disciples like you. The diocese is grateful and truly blessed that you have chosen to share your gifts with the young people in our care. The following regulations remind us what is acceptable and unacceptable in volunteering/working with our minors. This policy is imperative for the protection of our youth and for your protection as well. As a volunteer/employee: 1. I will act as a role model or mentor reflecting Gospel values. 2. I will be a good listener, and treat everyone with patience, courtesy, dignity and consideration. 3. I will know to whom and for whom I am responsible. I will report to my supervisor and let him/her know if something strange, embarrassing or possibly compromising happens in my ministry. 4. I will maintain ongoing communication with my supervisor regarding interactions I have with youth. 5. I will report any child abuse or neglect which I suspect to my immediate supervisor and to the child protective agency in my county. 6. I will report any child abuse involving an employee or volunteer to the Diocesan Case Manager, Frank DiLallo at 419-244-6711 ext 632, 419-243-2150 (private line) or 1-800-926-8277 ext 632 (within Ohio). I will also notify my supervisor. 7. I will participate with youth affiliated with the Diocese of Toledo, only in church or school-sponsored events, trips (day and overnight), meetings, gatherings, retreats, conferences, and/or sporting events. 8. I will maintain an appropriate ratio of adult chaperones to youth in all church and school sponsored functions. 9. I will get parent/guardian permission slips signed for any event involving transportation. 10. I will use discretion if I must meet with a minor alone by using an office with a window, open door or adult present. 11. I will use discretion if I must accompany a youth into a restroom or locker room and if possible I will ask another adult to be present. 12. I will dress appropriately when working/volunteering with youth. 13. I will use discretion with physical displays of emotion, such as hugging children. A hug can have different connotations for an elementary student than for a junior high or senior high student. 14. Any and all digital networking and communication including but not limited to (e-mail, texting, Facebook, Twitter, cell phones, etc.) with school and/or parish youth should be ministry related and not personal in nature, restricted to matters concerning classes, youth ministry events, parish events, athletic/event schedules or registration/event related forms. When appropriate and possible parents/legal guardians and my supervisor are to be included in related discussions pertaining to and about youth and/or electronically copied on such correspondence. As a volunteer/employee: 1. I will not become a youth’s “buddy.” I understand that as an adult it is not appropriate to build a social life with youth. I will not use inappropriate or suggestive jokes, profanity, stories, or foul language with youth. 2. I will not use inappropriate or suggestive jokes or stories, profanity, or foul language with youth. 3. I will not be in possession of pornographic materials when in the presence of youth. 4. I will not be in possession of a firearm or weapon in the presence of youth. (Excludes law enforcement personnel) 5. I will not drive alone with youth. If I am involved with transportation for a field trip or some other event I will make sure I am transporting more than one youth (Note: an obvious exception to not being alone with youth is where there is a relationship to the youth; e.g., niece, nephew, etc.) 6. I will not consume or be under the influence of any alcohol or illegally controlled substances or tobacco products in the presence of youth or prior to being with any group involving youth where I am responsible. 7. I will not attempt professional counseling unless I am trained as a professional counselor. 8. I will not visit a youth’s home unless a parent or legal guardian is present. 9. I will not discipline using physical contact, demeaning or sarcastic language. 10. I will not share inappropriate personal information with youth and/or about youth. By signing this document as a volunteer/employee working with children, I agree to strictly follow the above code of conduct. All employees are required to undergo state (BCI) and national (FBI) background screenings. As a volunteer I recognize that I may be required under the Ohio Revised Code to be fingerprinted. I will notify my supervisor and the Diocesan Case Manager if I am charged with or convicted of any criminal offense involving moral turpitude. As a volunteer, I understand that failure to comply with these rules and regulations is grounds for removal. Any violations of this policy by an employee may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment. REVISED 3/10 TF - 76 June 11, 2010