Dear
Pastors, Parochial Administrators, Archdiocesan Office Directors,
Directors of Archdiocesan Institutions and School Principals:
On
June 14, 2002, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops approved
the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People. The charter addresses the Church’s commitment to deal
appropriately and effectively with cases of sexual abuse of minors by
priests, deacons, and church personnel.
The bishops have pledged to work with parents, civil authorities,
educators, and various organizations in the community to make and maintain
the safest environment for minors. With
the Charter, the bishops established a specific commitment to evaluate the
background of all church personnel who have responsibility for the care
and supervision of children and young people.
The
Charter and Norms approved by the Bishops’ conference and the Policy of
the Archdiocese of New Orleans recognize that sexual and other abusive
misconduct with minors is a serious problem with a profound impact on the
lives of those affected. They are in place to provide for a safe
environment for all children and young people who come in contact with
those who minister, are employed, or volunteer in service of the Church.
In
light of this, and in accord with Article 13 of the Charter for the
Protection of Children and Young People, I hereby promulgate the
Volunteer and Employee Screening Policy for the Archdiocese of New Orleans
effective October 9, 2003.
The
policy (copy attached) requires that all those who serve in the
Archdiocese who have regular contact with minors must satisfactorily pass
a criminal background screening.
This screening will be conducted solely to determine suitability
for service to minors. Because
of the potentially sensitive nature of this information, the process takes
all precautions to safeguard the confidentiality and dignity of employees
and volunteers who undergo it. It
is important as we begin this process to assure potential employees and
volunteers that the only information we will be collecting is on criminal
convictions. We will not
check any financial or credit records.
We
will exclude from service to minors anyone who has a conviction for
violent crimes, or crimes of a sexual nature.
However, as the Church, we must recognize that sometimes people who
have sinned or committed crimes in the past have the desire and the gifts
to serve in another capacity, and balance the protection of children with
the compassion Jesus asks us to exhibit.
Very
soon, you will be receiving detailed information on the background
screening process from Ms. Beth Tinto, Director of Human Resources.
It requires that all Archdiocesan locations that will be completing
these screenings have Internet access.
The cost for volunteer screens is $4, and the cost for employee
screens is $33.
I
am certain that this policy will be an important pillar in our efforts to
ensure a truly safe environment for all of our children and young people.
I thank you for your cooperation in the fulfillment of this policy
and for the many good things you do in service of the Lord and the Church.
Sincerely yours in the Lord,
Most Rev. Alfred C. Hughes
Archbishop of New Orleans
