Empowering God's Children
Virtus’ Empowering God’s Children is the only acceptable safe environment program for children and youth enrolled in schools, parish faith formation, and teen group sessions in the Archdiocese of Detroit., from kindergarten through grade 12.
This online program, comprised of two lessons each year presented by teachers and catechists. The grade- and age-appropriate modules instructs youth about boundaries, how to recognize boundary violations, how to respond to persons who violate their boundaries, and how to report such violations to parents, family members, and other trusted adults. There are two lessons each year automatically selected to ensure grade- and age-appropriate content.
Teachers and catechists are required to document within the Virtus platform when they present the lessons. This record-keeping will ensure that all the Archdiocese of Detroit schools and parishes are following the Safe Environment requirements of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People (The Dallas Charter).
Important Information and Dates for 2026-27
- Effective September 1, 2026, all schools, parish faith formation, and teen group sessions in the Archdiocese of Detroit are required to teach Lessons 1 and 2Â ORÂ Lessons 3 and 4. Both sessions must be taught for the parish, school, or program to be compliant.Â
- All lessons must be completed by March 30, 2027.Â
- Teachers and catechists are to ensure that all lessons taught are fully documented in VIRTUS.Â
- Guide for parents and guardians
- Lesson leader orientation and certification
Curriculm
- Lesson 1: Physical Boundaries: Safe and Unsafe Touching Rules
- Lesson 2: Safe Adults, Safe Touches and Special Safe Adults
- Lesson 3: Boundaries
- Lesson 4:Â Secrets, Surprises and Promises