The U.S. bishops have acted in a unified way to enact a comprehensive, binding policy that not only underscores the gravity of sexual abuse, but also will remove from ministry those who commit even a single offense.
The new revisions ensure that the policy is simultaneously uncompromising and fair while being fully consistent with the provisions of Church law, particularly due process. In this sense, the revisions adopted today make a very strong policy even stronger. The policy also benefits from clearer language and greater specificity, which should enhance common understanding and support of the policy.
As we await final approval from the Holy See of the revised Norms, this diocese will continue to do everything possible to eradicate sexual abuse by building on the progress already made to enact the policy, including our compliance with state reporting requirements, outreach and pastoral care to victims to bring about healing, understanding and reconciliation, as well as measures which will prevent new cases from arising.