The Diocese of Laredo remains strongly committed to the Chapter for the Protection of Children and Young People.  As agreed upon by the Bishops of the United States, in the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People in June 2002, each diocese will “provide education and training” about “ways to make and maintain a safe environment for children.”  The 2018 revision of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People reaffirms the deep commitment of the Bishops of the United Stated to create a safe environment within the Church for children and youth.

Most Reverend James A. Tamayo issued a decree on May 22, 2019 stating that we will continue fulfilling our responsibility to educate children with regard to this important information through the program Circle of Grace: Safe Environment Training. This program replaced previous program named: Learning about L.I.F.E. – Life, Infatuation, Friendship, Exploitation (L.I.F.E.).

It is our responsibility as a Diocese to make sure that our parishes, missions, and schools implement these programs for the safety of our children. The Office of Faith Formation & Sacramental Preparation in collaboration with the Office of Safe Environment provide training, curriculum for children in grades K-12, parent resources, and conduct site visits to aid religious education staff with the successful implementation of the program at each of our parishes and schools.