Diocesan Code of Conduct Regarding Contact with Minors and Vulnerable Adults
We are all aware of reports involving the abuse of minors by persons in positions of trust. While persons who would do such reprehensible things constitute a small minority of the population, this notoriety can lead to otherwise innocent behavior being misconstrued. Also, although a minority, we must not forget that persons who would harm our children do exist and it is morally imperative for us to do all we can to safeguard our children. Both of these interests can be served by an established code of behavior consistent with Christian values and Catholic Church teachings.
This policy covers all priests, deacons, religious, pastoral ministries, administrators, staff, employees and volunteers. This policy presupposes that the minor is not the child of the person, since we are generally not in a position to proscribe conduct between a parent and child.
January 2019