The Archdiocese of Los Angeles is committed to the Gospel message in our efforts to protect our children from child sexual abuse.
"The
disciples approached Jesus and said, 'Who is the greatest in the
kingdom of heaven?' He called a child over, placed it in their midst,
and said, 'Amen, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children,
you will not enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like
this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever
receives one child such as this in my name receives me' " (Mt 18: 1–5).
These efforts have evolved and expanded since 2002, when the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops adopted the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People ("Charter"). The charter is based on the Essential Norms for Diocesan/Eparchial Policies Dealing with Allegations of Sexual Abuse of Minors by Priests or Deacons ("Essential Norms"). Using the Charter as a foundation, the archdiocese is ever diligent in striving to go beyond the Charter in our effort to find new and better ways to protect our most precious gift: our children.
Through the archdiocese's safe environment programs, policies, and procedures covering training, background checks (Charter, Article 13), and safe environment training and education (Charter, Article 12), we receive our children and young people in Jesus' name. We pledge to
protect their innocence by being the ears, eyes, and voices of children,
young people, and vulnerable adults to prevent abuse and harm in our
churches, schools, homes, and communities.
In the
archdiocese, the clergy and laity have a shared commitment to assure
that the intention of the Charter is integrated into the lives of the
faithful. This chapter provides a guide and resources for those who are
subject to or implement the safe environment efforts of the archdiocese.
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