Child Protection Catechesis

Diocese of Allentown

“Circle of Grace” Program

Grades 1-8 – 2023-2024 PREP School Year 

The Diocese of Allentown announced that effective September 1, 2022, all schools & parish religious education programs began using the “Circle of Grace Program,” developed by a team of educators and youth protection professionals in the Archdiocese of Omaha. The program is rooted in the Catholic faith and emphasizes dignity and respect for one’s body, appropriate boundaries, and awareness of child protection topics, including online safety and grooming. Grade-appropriate modules are designed for K - 12 students and include information and resources for parents.

Curriculum materials are available for families to preview, and parents will have the option to "opt-out" of having their child present for the lesson. More information will be included in the 2023-2024 registration packet.

We thank you for continuing to place your trust in us as we work with you and your child in partnership. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me at the email listed below. You are also welcome to contact Kristin Osenbach: kosenbach@allentowndiocese.org (Parishes / PREP program) if you have any questions about the Circle of Grace program or child protection catechesis in the Diocese of Allentown. The safety of our students is always our priority, and we hope you will take advantage of and share the parental resources included with the curriculum.

God Bless, 

Janessa O’Donnell 

PREP Administrator, Parish Safe Environment Coordinator 

janessa.odonnell@stjoescoopersburg.org