Diocesan Resources
How You Can Help Address Child Abuse Overseas (2017)
How You Can Help Address Child Abuse Overseas
The Catholic Church in the U.S. has come a long way in protecting children against abuse. Thanks to victims/ survivors of sexual abuse coming forward, as well as the efforts by clergy, staff, volunteers and parents to implement the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, children in our communities are safer and victims/survivors of sexual abuse by clerics are receiving the help they need. In their journey to address these difficult issues, parishes in the U.S. have learned lessons that could be invaluable to Church partners overseas that are facing the same problem. We are asking for your help. By sharing your stories and insight with your parish twins, global missions and partners overseas, you can assist in expanding protection for children worldwide. Your input can help overseas parishes learn how to better protect children from abuse, provide healing for survivors, respond more effectively to allegations, and develop protection policies. To help your parish begin this conversation, the USCCB and CRS offer this 4-stage process as a guide.
Note: Child abuse is an important but sensitive topic to discuss with overseas partners and twin parishes. Your first step should be to encourage your “parish twins” and other partners to keep their local bishops informed about these initiatives and ensure coherence with the pastoral plan for the local Church. No activity should be undertaken by either U.S. parishes or their overseas partners without the approval of the local bishop and, if applicable, the religious superior. According to a 2015 Letter from Pope Francis to the Presidents of Episcopal Conferences, all episcopal conferences should have policies in place to safeguard children. Encourage your “parish twins” and other partners to contact their dioceses to learn more about their safeguarding policies.