The Archdiocese of Boston guidelines require that all employees and all volunteers who MAY have contact with children must complete the Protecting God's Children (PGC) program.  Those who will be involved with any ministry at St. Matthias can register for a training as follows:
On your preferred web browser, go to: www.virtusonline.org.
1. Click on “First time registrant.”
2. On the next page click on “Begin the registration process.”
3. Select “Boston” from the drop-down list of dioceses.
4. Complete the registration process.
Once registration is complete you will be directed to a PGC training through VIRTUS. This training must be completed within 60 days of beginning ministry for St. Matthias to be in compliance with child protection requirements at the Archdiocese of Boston.

The Archdiocese of Boston requires that all clergy, parish staff members, and volunteers 18 years of age and over who minister to, or have the potential for unmonitored access to children, youth, the elderly or the disabled undergo an annual Criminal Offender Record Information ( CORI ) check. In order to provide the safest possible environment for all of our parishioners at St. Matthias, as in many other parishes, we ask that all volunteers participate in this CORI check.

The CORI database is driven by name and date of birth.  Since many people share the same name and birth date it is not uncommon for a person with no criminal record to receive a CORI of a person with a record, if the name and date of birth are the same.  In order to safeguard against this error, CORI procedures include information specific to each individual as well as a photo ID check. While some may see this report as a bit of a burden or have privacy issues concerning CORI information, this is an important tool in insuring a safe and secure environment.  If you have concerns or questions do not hesitate to speak with any member of the staff.
When submittedd, the CORI form that you are asked to complete is strictly confidential.  These forms will be sent in a sealed envelope to the Archdiocesan delegate who will send them to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts .

CORI Verification will be done in (1) of these ways:

1. In-person at the St. Matthias Parish Office.  Once you have completed your CORI Form, you may call the office at 508-460-9255 or email admin@stmattpar.org to make an appointment to turn it in; verify your form with a staff member using your ID; and receive the Archdiocesan Code of Conduct.
2. In-person the weekend of March 11 & 12.  Once you have completed your CORI Form, come to masses the weekend of March 11 & 12 to verify your form with a staff member using your ID; and receive the Archdiocesan Code of Conduct.
3. Notary Verification. Have a Notary verify your form for you and then return the original completed and verified form to St. Matthias.  Please be aware, this method may incur a cost.  Please note, we would need to re-verify in person once possible.

The Archdiocese of Boston also requires that all volunteers 18 years and older review the Archdiocesan Code of Conduct for Volunteers.