Diocese Found to Be in Compliance with Charter for Protection of Children

By Aaron Boehm
Upper Michigans Source
June 3, 2015

http://www.uppermichiganssource.com/news/story.aspx?id=1213447#.VXC5Wvl_uSp

In 2014, the Catholic Diocese of Marquette was again found to be in compliance with the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People.

This charter was adopted by the U.S. Catholic bishops in 2002 to address the problem of child and youth sexual abuse by clergy. StoneBridge Business Partners of Rochester, New York conducted the audit of the diocese’s compliance with the Charter. During the audit period of July 1, 2013 through June 30, 2014, 2600 children and youth received training in safe environment awareness in diocesan Catholic schools and parishes.

In addition, 356 diocesan, parish and Catholic school employees and volunteers from throughout the U.P. were trained in the prevention of child and youth sexual abuse, bringing the total number of adults trained since 2002 to 4,000. Currently, the diocese rechecks the background of every priest, religious, employee and volunteer every three years.

Bishop John Doerfler said, “Since the audits first began in 2003, the Diocese of Marquette has been found to be in compliance with the Charter year after year, which underscores our commitment to keeping children safe. To extend Christ’s love and healing, I am open to meeting with those who have been harmed by clergy sexual abuse of minors.”

To bring a complaint regarding the sexual abuse of minors to the attention of the diocese, please call one of the Victim’s Assistance Coordinators, Stephen Lynott at 844-495-4330 or Diane Tryan at 844-694-4362. Both phone numbers are toll-free.

Those who wish to put their complaint in writing can direct their correspondence to: Victim’s Assistance Coordinator, c/o Catholic Social Services of the U.P., 1100 Ludington St., Suite 401, Escanaba, MI 49829. The letter should be marked “Personal and Confidential” and indicate whether a response is desired by phone or by letter.

The diocese will also help anyone bring their concerns to church officials outside the diocese if the sexual abuse occurred elsewhere and the person now resides in the Diocese of Marquette. If you are unsure about bringing a complaint or would like further information, please contact Stephen Lynott or Diane Tryan at the phone numbers above.

The diocese always encourages those bringing a complaint to report the incident to local civil authorities. The diocese reports all allegations to the appropriate civil authorities.

The 2014 Annual Report has been posted on the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ website.