"I think this finding is a reflection of the dedication of our bishop, our parishes and diocesan officials to the safety of children and young people in our Catholic institutions," said Patricia Kornfeld, diocesan assistance coordinator.

"However, it does not mean we can relax our vigilance," she said. "We are all responsible for the children entrusted to our care."

Kornfeld said the diocese is in the process of implementing even more stringent requirements for volunteers in parishes, schools and Catholic institutions in the diocese.

Previously, the Pastoral Policy on Sexual Abuse of Minors by Church Personnel for the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois required that volunteers who had contact with children undergo a criminal background check and complete an educational program on recognizing and preventing abuse of minors.

Under the revised policy, all volunteers — religious or lay, in any capacity — in the parishes, schools, agencies and other institutions of the diocese will be required to undergo a criminal background check and complete the approved safe environment training.

"And, yes, this will include all volunteers in every ministry," Kornfeld said. "According to the new policy, this includes 'eucharistic/extraordinary ministers of holy Communion, lectors, ushers, greeters/hospitality, choir members, musicians and equipment technicians), volunteering in the parishes, schools, agencies and other institutions of the diocese.'

"For example, volunteers working at parish festivals and fundraising events will now be covered under the policy," she said.

Although the new policy revisions go beyond what is required under the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, Kornfeld said they are not unique to the Springfield diocese. At least 15 other dioceses apply this requirement in whole or part or are considering taking similar action.

The revised policy goes into effect on July 1 and full compliance is expected by January 2013. Background checks will be required every five years. Safe environment training is on a one-time basis.

Kornfeld said there have been some questions concerning reasons for the new, stricter guidelines.

"First, changes to the child protection policy were made by Bishop (Thomas John) Paprocki in consultation with a number of groups, over a period of more than a year," Kornfeld said. "He even convened a special focus group made up of lay representatives from each deanery. A majority of those consulted expressed their strong support for these revisions."

But Kornfeld said the most serious consideration is the safety of children.

"Our safe environment training has taught us that as adults, we are all responsible for the safety of children. But not all adults are provided with the knowledge to know how to keep children safe," Kornfeld said.

Parishes, Kornfeld said, are places where families gather, and children are present not only at religious education programs, but also at fish fries, picnics, festivals and fundraisers.

"Providing all volunteers with the proper training increases the safety of children," she said. "Trained volunteers around the parish are extra 'eyes and ears.' Volunteers learn about appropriate behavior with children and what to do if they notice behavior of another adult around children that makes them uncomfortable."

Kornfeld said she hopes that alert, trained volunteers can share information with the wider community for the protection of children.

"The ultimate Christian benefit is that this training might someday save a child from the harmful effects of experiencing child sexual abuse and therefore protect the dignity of life," she said.

A more detailed explanation is of the volunteer requirements can be found on the diocesan web site at www.dio.org.