The Diocese of Jefferson City has rolled out a completely revised version of its Empowering God’s Children child safety training program, introducing updated introductory videos titled Power to Protect version 3.0.
What Changed in Power to Protect 3.0
The new curriculum features four entirely reimagined videos tailored for children in grades K-2, 3-5, 6-8, and 9-12. According to program updates, each tier incorporates new scripts, visuals, graphics, music, and animation. Lesson leaders will show these videos directly to youth.
To ease the administrative burden on instructors, organizers pulled complex information out of the standard lesson plans and folded it directly into the video content. This shift aims to reduce lesson leader stress while emphasizing key concepts regarding personal safety, boundaries, healthy relationships, safe adults, and seeking help in age-appropriate ways.
Teachers and catechists can access the updated material by logging into their VIRTUS accounts and clicking on the “Children’s Program” tab. A block labeled “Power to Protect 3.0” appears on the left side of the page, where the new video links display in yellow.
Choose Between Version 2.0 and Version 3.0
For the 2026–2027 school year, diocesan guidelines allow instructors to use either version 2.0 or version 3.0. Staff members who have already completed the Empowering God’s Children training for the 2026-2027 school year do not need to retake the course.
Questions regarding the rollout can be directed to Regina E. Quinn, Director of Safe Environment, via safeenvironment@diojeffcity, or 573-635-9127, extension 240. Alternatively, inquiries can go to Danielle Steinbeck, Safe Environment Coordinator, at dsteinbeck@diojeffcity.org or 573-635-9127, extension 252.
Submissions for the Monday Morning Memo must reach toswald@diojeffcity.org by noon on Thursdays. Parishes wishing to feature events on the diocesan calendar can use the submission link available on the communications page of the diocesan website.
