REVIEW BOARD MISSION STATEMENT AND PROCEDURES
POLICY TO MAINTAIN A SAFE ENVIRONMENT
PROTOCOLS FOR THE MINISTRY TO MINORS AND VULNERABLE ADULTS
POLICY FOR MINISTERIAL CONDUCT
MISSION STATEMENT AND PROCEDURES
DIOCESE OF GAYLORD
POLICY FOR THE PROTECTION
OF MINORS AND OF VULNERABLE ADULTS
AS OF JULY 1, 2021
Preface
The Diocese of Gaylord Policy For The Protection of Children was established in January 2003, in response to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops approval of two (2) documents: (1) The Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People (June 2002, revised in 2005, 2011, and 2018)(“the Charter”); and (2) The Essential Norms for Diocesan/Eparchial Polices Dealing with Allegations of Sexual Abuse of Minors by Priests or Deacons (December 2002, revised in 2006) (the “Essential Norms”). The Charter and the Essential Norms address the crisis in the Church in the United States regarding the sexual abuse of minors by some clergy and church personnel.
In compliance with its obligations under the Charter and the Essential Norms, the Diocese has developed policies in the areas of prevention, reporting, outreach, and accountability when resolving issues involving alleged sexual abuse of minors and vulnerable adults. The Diocese’s policy also recognizes, incorporates and implements the requirements and procedures of applicable state and local laws regarding the protection of minors and vulnerable adults.
Applicability
This application of this Policy includes, but is not limited to, clergy, religious men and women, employees and volunteers of the Diocese who are accused of sexual abuse of minors and vulnerable adults.
The Policy sets forth procedures and obligations for the handling of such allegations of sexual abuse, the prevention of further abuse, the healing of those who have been injured, and the restoration of a sense of trust among the faithful and the larger community. “Safe Environment” training and screening practices and the policies within the Diocese of Gaylord play a major role in its pledge to heal and its promise to protect victims. The “Safe Environment” standards are published separately.
Bishops, Cardinals, Patriarchs or Legates are to be held accountable under the authority of Motu Proprio Vos estis lux mundi (“You are the light of the world”). In 2019, the Holy Father issued Norms which address sexual abuse of minors and vulnerable persons, sexual acts compelled through the abuse of authority and interference with investigations into such crimes. The provisions of Vos Estis Lux Mundi and contact information for reporting to appropriate law enforcement and Catholic Bishop Abuse Reporting Service (CBAR) shall be provided on the Diocesan website and are supplemental to this Policy.
Obligation to Report
Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting
Any cleric, religious, employee, school counselor, teacher, administrator or other person acting with the authority of the Church of the Diocese of Gaylord who has reasonable cause to suspect child abuse or neglect of a minor shall comply with State reporting requirements, specifically the Michigan Child Protection Law, MCL 722.263, except for those communications that are canonically privileged. Notification by a staff member to the person in charge of a church, school or other diocesan entity does not relieve the staff member of said church, school or entity of the obligation to report under the Michigan Child Protection Law.
All individuals suspecting child abuse, whether they are mandated reporters or not, must immediately contact the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services by telephone (855.444.3911) or online at https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/0,5885,7-339-73971_7119---00.html. The Michigan Attorney General’s office has also established a special telephone number for people to share information that may be helpful in the ongoing investigation of sexual misconduct. The Michigan Department of Attorney General tip line is (844.324.3374). The Diocese shall post clear instructions on its website with the appropriate contact information to allow any and all individuals who suspect child abuse to make reports to civil authorities and to the Diocesan Victim Assistance Coordinator.
Also, except as provided for by Canon 1548 §2, whenever a cleric or religious has notice of, or well-founded motives to believe that, sexual abuse or sexual misconduct has been committed by someone other than a Bishop, Cardinal or Legate, that cleric or religious is obliged to report promptly this fact to the local Ordinary (Bishop, Vicar General or Episcopal Vicar) where the events are said to have occurred. The report shall include as many particulars as possible to ensure an accurate assessment of the facts. While not required, any other person can submit such a report by any appropriate means.
Victim Assistance Coordinator
In addition to the legal reporting requirements adopted herein, the Diocese of Gaylord will maintain a Victim Assistance Coordinator to receive reports of sexual abuse concerning any cleric, religious, employee, or other person acting with the authority of the Church of the Diocese.
The Victim Assistance Coordinator shall be a person who possesses a clinical counseling-based proficiency in understanding the dynamics of sexual abuse. The person shall also understand the laws and Diocesan policies to serve victims of sexual abuse.
The Victim Assistance Coordinator’s key responsibility is to listen to and take reports of sexual abuse that are made to the Diocese and help coordinate counseling, both emotional and spiritual, for the victim’s well-being and recovery, as may be required by the specific case. The Victim Assistance Coordinator of the Diocese must be promptly notified of any contacts or communications from possible victims concerning allegations so an immediate response can be made to them.
The Victim Assistance Coordinator will immediately notify the Bishop and Diocesan Attorney of any allegation received and assist in the coordination of a meeting between the victim and Bishop along with counseling as may be required.
Report to the Authorities
A report to the authorities must be made promptly by the Diocesan Attorney of allegations of sexual abuse of a minor or of a vulnerable adult received by the Diocese, whether occurring in the past or present, even those that do not pose an immediate risk or endangerment to a minor or to a vulnerable adult. The Victim Assistance Coordinator will inform the alleged victim that this report is being made, and always encourage the victim to contact law enforcement themselves.
The Chancellor, Diocesan Attorney and the Victim Assistance Coordinator will cooperate with public authorities about reporting all such cases including those that occurred when the alleged victim is no longer a minor and when the alleged clergy or other offender is no longer an active volunteer or staff member. This cooperation is demonstrated by a written report that will be sent by the Diocesan Attorney to the appropriate County Prosecuting Attorney and State Attorney General’s office. Per internal protocols, the Diocese will cooperate with law enforcement if they pursue an investigation of the past allegation and will not interfere in the investigation.
Pastoral Outreach to Victims and Others
As circumstances permit, and with due regard for law enforcement investigations, the Victim Assistance Coordinator, Chancellor/Safe Environment Coordinator or Bishop’s designee will collaborate with parishes and schools to provide pastoral outreach to victims and others, and shall offer pastoral assistance to the alleged victim, family members and those affected by the circumstances.
Pastors, school administrators, program directors and lay leaders shall also take appropriate and responsible action for the protection of minors and vulnerable adults.
Internal Investigation of Allegations Involving Clergy and Other Employees or Volunteers
When an allegation of sexual abuse or misconduct with a minor or with a vulnerable adult by a cleric is received, an investigation of the accused offender shall be initiated in accordance with Canon 1722 and certain precautionary measures may be invoked that shall comply with Article 5 of the Charter and Articles 6 and 8 of the Essential Norms. This investigation will not begin until civil authorities have completed their investigation/legal proceedings or given permission to the Diocese to begin its investigation.
Investigation
At the appropriate time, the Bishop may proceed with an investigation by appointing an investigator to interview the victim, the accused, and others. The investigator will prepare a written report that will be presented to the Review Board for its consideration.
Diocesan Review Board
The Bishop shall appoint and maintain a Review Board to review and respond to allegations regarding sexual abuse of minors and of vulnerable adults. The Review Board shall consist of at least five (5) and no more than ten (10) members who are in full communion with the Roman Catholic Church. The Review Board shall receive the facts and information sufficient to discuss the allegations of sexual abuse or grave misconduct by a priest or deacon in order to provide appropriate consultation to the Bishop, in compliance with Article 2 of the Charter and Articles 8 and 9 of the Essential Norms. The Review Board Mission Statement and Procedures shall be published on the Diocesan website and are incorporated into this Policy.
Alleged Offender
With due regard for law enforcement investigations the Diocese shall inform the accused of his right to legal counsel, both civil and canonical. The Diocese shall encourage the alleged offender to obtain such counsel in compliance with Article 5 of the Charter and Article 11 of the Essential Norms.
Ministry Suspension
When admission of and/or credible evidence of risk exists demonstrating that sexual abuse or grave misconduct with a minor or with a vulnerable adult may have occurred as alleged, the alleged offender shall be immediately relieved of pastoral ministry in the Diocese and prohibited from presenting or identifying himself as a priest or wearing a clerical clothing or collar, pending the outcome of any law enforcement investigation and/or canonical process, in compliance with Article 5 of the Charter and Articles 6 and 8 of the Essential Norms.
Ministry Revoked
When sexual abuse or grave misconduct concerning a minor or a vulnerable adult by a priest or a deacon is admitted or is established after an appropriate process in accord with canon law, certain consequences or actions provided for in canon law will be applied in compliance with Article 5 of the Charter and Article 8 of the Essential Norms.
Evaluations
The alleged offender may be asked to cooperate in medical and psychological evaluations by competent professionals or at a facility mutually acceptable to the Bishop and the alleged offender. The alleged offender will also be asked to provide a medical release so that the Bishop can assess ministry suitability in consultation with his staff, and/or the Diocesan Review Board (and/or the Ministerial Conduct Board).
Legal Counsel
Notification of the allegation or incident shall also be given to legal counsel and liability insurers for the Diocese in accordance with the terms of applicable insurance policies.
Communication
The Chancellor or designee shall serve as spokesperson for the Diocese when an inquiry is made by the media or by the general public.
Documentation
The Chancellor shall maintain the notes, memoranda, or other written documentation of allegations of sexual abuse or grave misconduct by clergy, the subsequent investigation and the actions in a secure area in the Chancery. Access to these documents shall be strictly limited to the Bishop, the Chancellor, the Vicar for Clergy and those to whom the Bishop grants access.
Rights/Reputations
Due regard is to be given to the protection of the rights and the reputations of all parties involved in these procedures.
Deceased Clergy Allegations
The process for an accused cleric that is deceased is: (1) to report the allegations to law enforcement authorities; (2) to undertake a fact-finding investigation with due regard for law enforcement investigations (which includes a review of personnel file and assignments); (3) to review the matter with the Review Board; and (4) to offer pastoral counseling support to the alleged victim.
APPROVED BY:
________________________________________
The Most Reverend Walter A. Hurley, Date: July 1, 2021
Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Gaylord
Click here for a printable version of the Policy for the Protection of Minors and Vulnerable Adults
DIOCESE OF GAYLORD
REVIEW BOARD MISSION STATEMENT AND PROCEDURES
Preface
The Review Board for the Diocese of Gaylord was established in January 2003, in response to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops approval of two (2) documents, the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People (June 2002, revised in 2005, 2011, and 2018) and the Essential Norms for Diocesan/Eparchial Polices Dealing with Allegations of Sexual Abuse of Minors by Priests or Deacons (December 2002, revised in 2006). The Charter and the Essential Nonns address the crisis in the Church in the United States regarding the sexual abuse of minors by some Clergy and Church Personnel.
This Mission Statement and Procedures directs the work of the board, the areas of responsibility, membership, and procedures of the Review Board. This document is part of the Diocesan Policy for the Protection of Children.
Applicability
This and other policies for the protection of children or vulnerable adults referring to Church Personnel/Personnel include but is not limited to clergy, religious men and women, employees and volunteers of the Diocese.
Mission of the Review Board
It is the mission of the Review Board to serve the people of God in the Diocese of Gaylord by assisting the Bishop in his responsibilities for the protection of minors, and vulnerable adults. The Board is charged with advising the Bishop in his assessment of the credibility of allegations and suitability for ministry, as well as annual review of Child Protection policies. Upon Bishop's request the Board may also advise the Bishop on the handling of allegations of sexual abuse, the prevention of further abuse, the healing of those who have been injured, and the restoration of a sense of trust among the faithful and the larger community.
General Responsibilities of the Review Board
The general responsibilities of the board are to:
- Provide consultation to the Bishop in his assessment of the credibility of all allegations of sexual abuse of minors or vulnerable adults by clergy. On some occasions, allegations of ministerial conduct concerning adults may be reviewed if requested by the Bishop (See Ministerial Conduct Mission Statement and Procedures which shall be published on the diocesan website);
- Review the policies and procedures within the Diocese that relate to the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People and the Essential Norms to assure compliance;
- Provide consultation to the Bishop regarding an alleged offender's suitability for Ministry, and Safety Plan;
- Oversee that the diocesan policies and laws on sexual abuse or other crimes are followed regarding the reporting of allegations to civil authorities;
- Offer advice on all aspects of alleged cases of sexual abuse of minors and vulnerable adults, whether retrospectively or prospectively, upon Bishop's request.
Membership
The Review Board shall consist of no less than five (5), nor more than ten (10) members of outstanding integrity and good judgment in full communion with the Church appointed by the Bishop. The members are appointed for a term of five (5) years, which may be renewed. The majority should be lay persons, none of whom are employed by the Diocese. They should bring experience or training in ministry, law, health care, mental health treatment, law enforcement, jurisprudence, human resources, business, management, education or other relevant fields. At least one (1) member shall be a Diocesan priest who is an experienced and respected pastor. Members serve without compensation.
Support Staff
The Chancellor/Safe Environment Coordinator, Victim Assistance Coordinator, Vicar General, Vicar for Clergy, Diocesan Attorney, and Communications Director shall participate in meetings of the Review Board, to assist and advise the Board. They are not voting members of the Review Board.
Conduct of Business
The Bishop shall appoint the Review Board chairperson, who shall preside at all meetings of the Board. The Diocesan Attorney shall be responsible for the written recording of the discussion and recommendations of the Board. In consultation with the chairperson, the Chancellor/Safe Environmnent Coordinator prepares the meeting agendas.
Quorum
A majority of the membership of the Board shall constitute a quorum for doing business. Attendance can be via live or virtual presence through electronic conferencing or telephonic communications.
Confidentiality
All deliberations of the Review Board shall remain confidential in order to respect the dignity of the involved persons. Official disclosure of Board action shall be made periodically through formal announcements prepared by the Bishop's Communications Department.
Board Duties:
Review of Allegations
The Review Board shall receive intake reports from the Victim Assistance Coordinator and investigation repo1is or documents from any investigation that takes place regarding allegations of abuse of minors and vulnerable adults by clergy ( or other Church Personnel or Volunteers as may be requested by the Bishop). Any contact by victims or families to the Review Board or a Board member will be directed to the Victim Assistance Coordinator and/or Bishop's delegate.
Consultation on Allegations
The Board shall provide consultation to the Bishop regarding credibility of allegations and suitability for ministry.
Policy Compliance
For all allegations presented to it, the Board shall also determine whether the Diocesan policy on sexual abuse was followed regarding the reporting to civil authorities. A written report is to be sent promptly by the Diocesan Attorney to the appropriate County Prosecuting Attorney and State Attorney General's office of allegations received by the Diocese, concerning sexual abuse of minors or vulnerable adults, even those that do not pose an immediate risk of endangennent to a minors.
Policy Review
The Board shall periodically review the Diocesan policy on sexual abuse. A report of any recommendations for changes in the policy shall be sent to the Bishop for approval.
Printable PDF: Review Board Mission Statement and Procedures (Rev. 02/21)
DIOCESE OF GAYLORD
POLICY TO MAINTAIN A SAFE ENVIRONMENT
FOR MINORS AND FOR VULNERABLE ADULTS
AS OF JULY 1, 2021
Preface
The objective of this policy is to promote and maintain a safe environment for minors and vulnerable adults who participate in the life of the local Church at the Diocese, its parishes and at parish schools.
Eligibility for Service
A satisfactory background check is a condition precedent to an individual’s eligibility for initial service to and for continued service to the Diocese, its parishes and its parish schools for:
- All clergy, all religious and all adult employees.
- Those adult contractors and those adult volunteers whose duties involve contact with minors or with vulnerable adults on a regular basis.
- Those adult contractors and those adult volunteers whose duties involve contact with minors or with vulnerable adults on an irregular basis for extended hours intermittently.
- Those individuals serving in other roles as the Diocese, a parish or a parish school deems appropriate.
Individuals who have been found guilty of sexual misconduct and/or abuse or who have pled guilty to or otherwise admitted to acts of sexual misconduct and/or abuse are prohibited from providing services of any nature, including volunteer services, to the Diocese, the parishes or the parish schools.
Individuals who have been found guilty of or who have pled guilty to or otherwise admitted to crimes, misdemeanors or conduct that does not involve sexual misconduct and/or abuse may be considered for service to the Diocese, the parishes or the parish schools on a case-by-case basis.
Standards of Conduct
A person whose service to the Diocese or its parishes or parish schools includes contact with minors or vulnerable adults shall implement and adhere to the “Protocols for Ministry to Minors and to Vulnerable Adults.” The objective of these Protocols is to establish that one adult is not to be alone with or communicating solely with a minor or vulnerable adult unless it is necessary to do so for an appropriate purpose (e.g., pastoral counseling) and during such a necessary get-together the arrangements utilized provide visibility. These Protocols are contained in the accompanying document, and incorporated herein by reference.
Education and Formation
Children and Youth
The curriculum taught in the parish schools and religious education programs, including youth ministry, shall include age-appropriate content or learning experiences for students to learn about appropriate boundaries for a person’s interactions with others. The Diocese will establish what curriculum content or learning experiences meet this objective.
Adults
Completion of training that promotes awareness and understanding of how to maintain a safe environment for minors and for vulnerable adults is required of the following adults:
- All clergy, all religious and all adult employees.
- Those adult contractors and those adult volunteers whose duties involve contact with minors or with vulnerable adults on a regular basis.
- Those adult contractors and those adult volunteers whose duties involve contact with minors or with vulnerable adults on an irregular basis for extended hours intermittently.
- Those individuals serving in other roles as the Diocese, a parish or a parish school deems appropriate.
The Diocese will establish what training content meets this objective, as well as the frequency thereof.
Incremental for Clergy and Clergy in Formation
The Diocese shall also assist clergy and clergy candidates to live out their vocation in faithful and integral ways, among other things, via participation in programs of human formation for chastity and celibacy as further described in Article 17 of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People issued by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
APPROVED BY:
________________________________________
The Most Reverend Walter A. Hurley, Date: July 1, 2021
Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Gaylord
DIOCESE OF GAYLORD
PROTOCOLS FOR MINISTRY
TO MINORS AND TO VULNERABLE ADULTS
AS OF JULY 1, 2021
Preface
The objective of these Protocols for Ministry to Minors and to Vulnerable Adults (“Protocols”) is to establish that one adult is not to be alone with or communicating solely with a minor or a vulnerable adult unless it is necessary to do so for an appropriate purpose (e.g., pastoral counseling) and to indicate that the arrangements utilized during such a necessary get-together shall offer visibility.
These Protocols are applicable to all persons (e.g., clergy, religious, school/program administrators, school counselors, teachers, catechists, youth ministers, support staff, coaches, school/program volunteers) who are employed by, contract with or volunteer in any of the parishes and institutions of the Diocese. A person whose service to the Diocese or its parishes/schools includes contact with minors or vulnerable adults shall implement and adhere to these Protocols.[1]
These Protocols are written with reference to a “minor” or “minors”; nonetheless, the measures also apply to interactions with a vulnerable adult or vulnerable adults. However, if a vulnerable adult is not under the care of a parent or court-appointed guardian, then references to obtaining the consent of a parent or court-appointed guardian do not apply.
General Protocols
- Wherever minors are and whatever they do must be with the knowledge and express consent of a parent or court-appointed guardian, also with adherence to any applicable civil laws.
- Adults must avoid the risk of becoming a father/mother/parental figure to a minor.
- If there is reasonable cause to suspect child abuse or neglect of a minor, regardless of whether they consider themselves mandated reporters, all individuals must immediately contact the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services at (855.444.3911) or online at https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/0,5885,7-339-73971_7119---00.html.
- Reflection on the words of Christ regarding children is a healthy meditation before any involvement with a minor/minors. (Mt. 18:6; Mk 9:42; Lk 17:2; Mk 10:13-16).
Behavior Protocols
- Adults must not make comments of a sexual nature to a minor. The only limited exceptions are in the context of sanctioned teaching presentations in the classroom involving legitimate discussion and legitimate questions from the minor. Adults must refer all other questions regarding sexual topics to the minor’s parents or court-appointed guardian.
- Unless another adult is present, one adult must not engage in games or other sports activities with one minor.
- If more than one minor wish to engage in games or sports activities, at least one adult must be present or nearby.
- Adults are prohibited from supplying or serving alcohol or controlled substance to minors. If alcohol is served or consumed as part of a parish or school social activity, it must only be served to and consumed by adults. To the extent that minors are present, adults must supervise them and ensure that minors do not have access to or consume alcohol.
- While on church property or engaged in any social or ministry activities, adults are prohibited from possessing, creating, acquiring or distributing any pornographic, sexually-based or other indecent media or other material including, but not limited to, creating, acquiring possessing or distributing child pornography. While on church property or engaged in any social or ministry activities, adults are prohibited from engaging in any pornographic, sexually-based or other indecent activities or conduct.
Virtual Interaction Protocols
- One-on-one communication between an adult and a minor via “electronic means” is prohibited. “Electronic means” includes telephone, email, text message, direct messages, Snapchat and/or virtual meeting software platforms including, but not limited to, Zoom and WebEx. Accordingly, a parent or court-appointed guardian must be included in any communication via electronic means to one minor and invited to participate in any virtual meeting or telephone call that involves one minor. This requirement does not extend to situations in which electronic communication is to an entire class or group in which the minor participates.
- Prior to any interaction with a minor via electronic means as described above, those responsible must obtain the written consent of the minor’s parent or court-appointed guardian. The written consent must include the disclosure that the ministry host will record interactions held via virtual meeting platforms.
- The host of any communications/meetings utilizing a virtual platform must not only record the meeting/session, but must retain the recording for at least one year.
Physical Location Protocols
- Unless it is necessary to do so for an appropriate purpose and during such a necessary get-together the arrangements utilized provide visibility, an adult must never be alone with a minor in the rectory, parish residence, school or parish facility.
- Excluding the Sacrament of Reconciliation, meetings or pastoral counseling situations that involve a minor must involve the presence or the proximity of another adult. There are limited exceptions to this protocol, such as where the presence of another adult is not the norm or practical, such as musical lessons or disciplinary meetings. Nevertheless, even in such situations, such activities must not be conducted behind closed doors or the activities must be visible from public spaces, for example through a window that provides visibility into the room from a public hallway.
- Minors are not allowed in the living quarters of a rectory or parish residence. Minors are only allowed in the “professional” section of such spaces.
- As long as at least two adults are present, minors are permitted to work in the rectory, parish residence, school or parish facility.
- During all times that a minor is present, the sacristy door of the church must remain open.
- Absent extreme inconvenience or impossibility the Sacrament of Reconciliation must be celebrated for a minor only in a designated location in the church.
- Absent exigent circumstances, such as a medical emergency or to intervene in a physical altercation, an adult must avoid being the only adult in a bathroom, locker room or other dressing area whenever minors are using such facilities.
Travel Protocols
- Trips with minors must have at least one adult chaperone for every ten (10) minors and/or students.
- While on trips, the adult chaperones must maintain a professional demeanor and behavior and appropriately socialize with the minors and/or students in a manner consistent with the Behavior Protocols outlined above.
- Overnight trips involving one adult who is not the parent or court-appointed guardian and a minor and/or student are prohibited.
- While on trips, adults must never stay alone overnight in the same motel/hotel room with a minor and/or student for whom the adult is not the parent or court-appointed guardian.
Pastoral Counseling Protocols (Excluding the Sacrament of Reconciliation)
- Pastoral counseling must only be undertaken by individuals who have appropriate training and when such counseling is within the scope of their responsibilities.
- The scope of pastoral counseling is limited and must not include clinical or therapeutic counseling which requires specific licensing, training and/or certification. School counseling, undertaken by a qualified professional who is obligated to comply with a professional code of ethics and specific regulations, is the exception to this restriction.
- Prior to the commencement of any pastoral counseling involving a minor, the permission of a minor’s parent or court-appointed guardian must be obtained. To the extent the pastoral counselor believes that circumstances warrant providing counseling without the presence or knowledge of a minor’s parent or court-appointed guardian, the pastoral counselor must obtain the permission of the pastor or the school principal.
- Pastoral counseling of a minor must only be provided in the professional portion of a rectory or school/parish facility.
- If it does not contain a window, the door to the office or classroom used for pastoral counseling must be left open when such counseling is provided.
- If possible, another adult should be in close proximity during any pastoral counseling session.
- Whether providing pastoral counseling, clinical or therapeutic counseling or school counseling, at all times, the adult must maintain and observe careful and appropriate boundaries concerning physical contact with a minor. A pastoral counselor, school counselor or counselor providing therapeutic or clinical counseling must recognize the existence of any personal/physical attraction to or from a minor. If this occurs, the adult counselor must refer the minor to another qualified adult counselor or licensed professional.
- If pastoral counseling extends beyond two sessions, the necessity for extended counseling must be discussed with the minor’s parents, court-appointed guardian or a licensed professional.
APPROVED BY:
________________________________________
The Most Reverend Walter A. Hurley, Date: July 1, 2021
Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Gaylord
[1] See the “Standards of Conduct” section within the Policy to Maintain a Safe Environment for Minors and for Vulnerable Adults.
DIOCESE OF GAYLORD
POLICY FOR MINISTERIAL CONDUCT
MISSION STATEMENT AND PROCEDURES
Preface
This Ministerial Conduct Mission Statement and Procedures in the Diocese of Gaylord is to serve as a resource to the Bishop and his staff in regard to responding to clergy misconduct other than sexual abuse of minors. Upon the request of the Bishop, the Diocesan Review Board alone or with other persons appointed by the Bishop may become involved in reviewing clergy misconduct matters covered by this policy.
Mission of the Ministerial Review Team
The supreme goal of the Church is the salvation of souls . This policy is intended to aid in seeking that goal by serving the people of God in the Diocese of Gaylord by assisting the Bishop in his responsibilities for the fair and just resolution of clergy allegations that include misconduct alone or with other adults. This policy also seeks to heal those who have been injured and promote the re-creation of a sense of trust among the faithful and the larger community.
Applicability
Alleged clergy misconduct to be reviewed may include: sexual misconduct with adults; other sexual improprieties not involving minors; boundary violations, gambling; drug or alcohol misuse; financial misdeeds; code of conduct violations or other allegations of serious misconduct. (NOTE: The provisions of Vos Estis Lux Mundi and contact information for reporting to appropriate law enforcement and Catholic Bishop Abuse Reporting service (CBAR) apply to Bishops, Cardinals, Patriarchs or Legates, only, and are not part of this policy. Vos Estis Lux Mundi shall be published on the diocesan website and is supplemental to this policy)
General Responsibilities of the Review Team
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The Review Team is assembled to provide advice and consultation to the Bishop and his staff regarding identified situations of clergy misconduct alone or with other adults.
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The Review Team confirms that reports to civil authorities are made in accordance with civil law. The Diocese shall fully cooperate with civil authorities in any investigations.
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The Review Team provides consultation to the Bishop regarding suitability for Ministry.
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The Review Team may also offer recommendations regarding Diocesan policies and processes relating to ministerial misconduct.
Conduct of Business
The Bishop shall appoint the Review Team chairperson, who shall preside at all meetings of the Review Team. The Vicar General, Chancellor, Vicar for Clergy and others at Bishop's request may participate in meetings of the Review Team when considering cases, to assist and advise them. The Diocesan Attorney shall be responsible for the written recording of the discussion and recommendations of the Review Team. In consultation with the chairperson, the Chancellor/Safe Environment Coordinator prepares the meeting agendas.
Quorum
For advice on suitability for ministry, allegations of abuse, policy review, or advice to Bishop on all aspects of cases, a quorum shall constitute not less than three persons.
Procedures
The Review Team may adopt procedures to govern details of its activities and investigations, such as the frequency of meetings, confidential review and maintenance of records, and any other business on a case by-case basis.
Confidentiality
All deliberations of the Review Team shall remain confidential in order to respect the dignity of the involved persons. Official disclosure of any review Team action or recommendations shall be made periodically through formal announcements prepared by the Bishop's Communications Department.
Review of Allegations
The Review Team shall receive a report from the Victim Assistance Coordinator or Bishop's delegate, as appropriate, regarding all allegations of misconduct by clergy, when requested by the Bishop. Any contact by victims or families to the Review Team/members will be directed to the Victim Assistance Coordinator, or Bishop's delegate.
Consultation on Allegations
The Review Team shall provide consultation to the Bishop regarding credibility of allegations, suitability for ministry and outreach to victims when requested by Bishop.
Policy Compliance
For all allegations presented to it, the Review Team shall also determine whether the Diocesan policy on sexual abuse or other crimes was followed regarding the reporting to civil authorities.
Policy Review
The Review Team shall periodically review the Diocesan policy on Ministerial Conduct. A report of any recommendations for changes in the policy shall be sent to the Bishop for approval.
Printable PDF: Policy for Ministerial Conduct-Mission Statement and Procedures (Rev. 02/21)
