What is Virtus? 

VIRTUS is the brand name that identifies best practices programs designed to help prevent wrongdoing and promote "rightdoing" within religious organizations. The VIRTUS programs empower organizations and people to better control risk and improve the lives of all those who interact with the Church. 

Who created the VIRTUS programs? 

The National Catholic Risk Retention Group, Inc. (National Catholic) created the programs. Monsignor Kevin McCoy, past board chairman of National Catholic, asked whether child sexual abuse could be prevented and, if so, how? In March of 1998, National Catholic invited prominent national experts—experts in many disciplines—to discuss these questions at a forum in Washington, D.C. From those discussions, the initiative for the VIRTUS programs was created. The National Catholic Board of Directors selected an Ad Hoc Committee to oversee development of the programs. The Ad Hoc Committee was assisted by a steering committee of nationally known experts and program and service providers.

Requirements

All parish volunteers are required to attend Virtus training. It is a mandate of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles that all parish volunteers, staff and school parents attend a Virtus workshop.

Workshops are offered at Holy Family Church as well as in many other Parishes throughout the Archdiocese. The dates and details can be found at the Virtus Online website. Advanced registration is required because of limited space. If you attend a workshop at another Parish, please be sure to turn in a copy of your certificate of attendance to the parish office.

Virtus needs to be renewed every 4 years. Check with your department head if you are not sure if you are due for recertification.

Getting Started

View the list of Virtus workshops available. Choose "Los Angeles - San Pedro Region (Archdiocese)" from the dropdown menu.