At St. Michael, we are committed to fostering a safe, secure, and respectful environment for all. As part of our commitment, we adhere to the policies of the Safe Environment Program. This initiative ensures that all clergy, staff, and volunteers who work with children and vulnerable adults are properly trained to prevent abuse and recognize potential risks. Participants must complete background checks, complete online Safe Environment training, and undergo annual recertification each January. By working together, we aim to create a faith community where everyone can feel protected and valued.
January Reset
To renew your training for January 2026: read the Training Guidance below, then log into your CMG Connect account and complete "A. 2026 Safe Environment RENEWAL Training - Lincoln."
Safe Environment Training Guidance*
*This resources references 2025 but is applicable for 2026 and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this "January Reset" a new policy for 2026? What is it?
No. This policy was enacted by the Diocese of Lincoln, effective January 1, 2025. This is our second year implementing the January Reset.
All clergy, religious, lay employees, and volunteers in the Diocese of Lincoln are required to complete safe environment training in the month of January. Safe environment certified individuals will have the whole month of January to complete the safe environment training renewal.
Why was this change implemented?
Syncing safe environment training has made it easier for the Diocese and its organizations to keep accurate record of who is certified.
Does this require a new background check in January of 2026?
No, this did not change the background check policy, which requires a background check be completed every five (5) years.
Who is required to complete safe environment training?
All clergy, religious, lay employees, and all volunteers whose duties will include contact with minors are required to complete safe environment training. This includes:
- Priests & Parish Staff
- Teachers & School Staff
- Liturgical Ministers (Acolytes, Lectors/Readers, Greeters/Ushers)
- Volunteers (CCD Catechists, Field Trip Chaperones, Retreat Leaders)
- Any adult whose duties will include contact with minors
Will I have to renew my safe environment training in January, even if I am current?
Yes. All safe environment certified individuals will have to complete the safe environment training renewal in January 2026, even if their safe environment training renewal was completed in the last twelve months.
For example, if you completed your safe environment training renewal in July 2025, you must still complete the safe environment training renewal in January 2026. We understand this may require some to renew safe environment training when it is current; however, once safe environment training renewal is completed in January 2026, it will not have to be renewed until January 2027. Thereafter, all clergy, religious, employees, and volunteers (in contact with youth) will renew training every January.
How long does it take to complete the safe environment training renewal?
It takes approximately 25 minutes to complete the training renewal.
What if a brand-new volunteer wants to begin in Summer 2026. Do they need to wait until January 2027 to sign up?
No. For example, a brand-new volunteer wants to begin in June 2026. They will complete their background check & safe environment training in June and will be due to renew their certification in January 2027 and each January thereafter.
What happens if I do not renew my training?
If you choose not to renew your safe environment training, you will be unable to conduct ministry for children on behalf of the Diocese of Lincoln or its organizations. Liturgical Ministers at St. Michael will be responsible for finding suitable substitutes.
Do I need to pay a fee to renew my safe environment training?
No. The Diocese covers all fees for background checks and safe environment training.
For more information, click the link below to view the Diocese of Lincoln Safe Environment Policies.
