To implement the Charter, the Diocese of Allentown has taken numerous steps:
1. A VICTIM ASSISTANCE COORDINATOR was appointed to ensure that those who have been abused or hurt will have an advocate. Our Diocese has reached out both pastorally and professionally, not only to victims, but also to their families who can be devastated by these offenses.
2. A seven-person DIOCESAN REVIEW BOARD was appointed to assist me in discharging my responsibilities involving the sexual abuse of minors by clerics. The Diocese is fortunate to have such highly qualified professional people as members of the Diocesan Review Board.
3. The position of SAFE ENVIRONMENT COORDINATOR was created to oversee the training of clergy, Religious, lay employees and volunteers in identifying and preventing abuse of minors. In addition, Safe Environment record-keeping at all diocesan locations is coordinated through this office.
4. By developing the role of DIOCESAN CHARTER COMPLIANCE OFFICER, all aspects of compliance with the norms of the Charter as well as diocesan policies are monitored. The Compliance Officer is also a resource for questions regarding background checks, local compliance issues, etcetera.
5. Criminal background checks and child abuse clearances have been conducted on thousands of clergy, lay personnel and volunteers of the Diocese and its parishes.
6. Through a program called PROTECTING GOD’S CHILDRENTM, thousands of adults and volunteers in the Diocese including priests, deacons, seminarians, Religious, diocesan employees, school principals and teachers have been trained on how to recognize child abuse if it has occurred and, significantly on how to prevent it before it happens.
7. Separate safe environment programs have also been instituted for students in our schools and parish religious education programs and for their parents.
8. No matter how fully our Diocese has complied with the Charter, there still remains a profound sorrow for the wounds inflicted upon some children and youth during the life of our Diocese.
