Ethics & Integrity In Ministry (EIM)

1. Complete an online volunteer application with the Diocese of Austin.
   Click HERE or go to www.austindiocese.org, click Ethics & Integrity in Ministry, and click on the link that says "EIM Compliance". The online application takes 30-60 minutes to complete.

2. Attend an "Ethics and Integrity in Ministry" (EIM) workshop within 90 days of completing your online application. EIM workshops last 2 hours and are held throughout the diocese. They are currently online. You can view a list of upcoming workshops at www.austindiocese.org. View instructions on how to register here. Advance registration is required.

Online EIM training fulfills the EIM compliance/training requirement only for applicants who have an existing EIM account.  Completing the online EIM training updates/renews EIM compliance for up to 3 years and have previously attended an EIM Workshop.

1. Login to your EIM account to update any contact information, and secure the needed information for processing your online submission of ONLINE WORKSHOP RENEWAL. 
New applicants, and those who have never attended an EIM Workshop, must attend an in-person EIM Workshop to fulfill their initial EIM compliance requirement. Login to your EIM account to find a list of EIM Workshops,  or contact your parish/school EIM site for assistance at barbara@stabcs.org.

2. The online EIM training includes a frank discussion of sexual abuse; if you have experienced sexual abuse and have concerns about viewing this material, please contact Emily Hurlimann at (512) 949-2447 to discuss alternative training.

3. If you completed your EIM workshop in 2017 or 2018 you need take advantage of renewing your compliance ONLINE. 

ONLINE WORKSHOPS will no longer be available effective January 1, 2022.

It is our top priority to keep children safe from all harm while in our care. In Texas, each person is a mandated reporter of abuse or neglect, which means that if you (or our staff) suspect a child is being abused or neglected, you are required by law to report it. The Child Abuse Hotline number is 1-800-252-5400. In addition, if at any time you see something that appears suspicious, makes you uncomfortable, or violates policy, please bring it to the attention of the Faith Formation Office, the pastor, or directly to Bishop Vásquez's office at 512-949-2400. You may also download, complete, and submit a Confidential Note of Concern Form.

Our diocesan policies, Ethics and Integrity in Ministry, are rooted in the Catholic understanding that each individual must be respected and honored. Jesus had a deep, abiding respect for each human being and would not harm or mislead anyone in his or her personal or spiritual life. We, the church, must attempt to do likewise. Our policies cover four areas of possible harm: immoral conduct, exploitation, harassment and abuse.

Anyone, volunteers, paid staff, religious or clergy, involved in a ministry with minors (those under the age of 18) or vulnerable adults (those who are uniquely vulnerable to abuse because of physical or mental disabilities) is required to:

1. Submit a Parish Volunteer Application to the Diocese of Austin
2. Agree to a criminal background check
3. Attend a workshop on "Ethics and Integrity in Ministry (EIM), formerly known as "Protecting God's Children," a seminar on child sexual abuse.
4. All clergy and paid staff, and all volunteers working with youth and vulnerable adults, at any parish or diocesan location, are required to complete an Application for Ministry AND are required to attend an EIM workshop every three years.

Note:  Materials used in the workshop include testimonies from victims and perpetrators of sexual abuse; if you have any concerns regarding your attendance at a workshop, please contact Emily Hurlimann at (512) 949-2447 to arrange an alternative arrangement to receive your training. Such inquiries shall remain confidential.

For more information on Diocesan Policies go to http://www.austindiocese.org/department_home.php?id=9
 

Persons who have experienced abuse (themselves or family) do not need to attend the workshop in order to complete their compliance requirement.  If you are a victim of sexual abuse and have concerns regarding your attendance at a workshop, contact Emily Hurlimann at (512) 949-2447 to discuss an alternative workshop arrangement.