Child Protection Policy
In response to the widely-publicized scandal of child sexual abuse by some deacons, priests and bishops that came to light in 2002, coupled with the failure of the United States bishops to take effective measures to stop this abuse and protect children and young people, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) has adopted the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People.
The Charter is designed to promote healing and reconciliation with victims/survivors of sexual abuse of minors; to guarantee an effective response to allegations of sexual abuse of minors; to ensure accountability of the Bishops’ procedures; and to protect children and young people from future abuse. For the complete text of the Charter and for more information on the USCCB program, go to: www.usccb.org/ocyp/.
In order to implement the Charter locally, the Archdiocese of Washington has enacted the Child Protection Policy. To determine whether its institutions and works comply with the Policy, the Archdiocese undergoes an annual audit. For the complete policy and other information on the Archdiocese’s program, including how to report an allegation of abuse, go to: www.adw.org
Holy Trinity Catholic Church is committed to full compliance with the Archdiocese’s Child Protection Policy. The Jesuits who serve at Holy Trinity Catholic Church are subject to additional requirements imposed by the Maryland Province of the Society of Jesus. These added measures are designed to protect children and young people with whom Jesuits have regular contact. The Society undergoes an annual audit to determine its compliance with these requirements. Information about the requirements can be found at www.mdsj.org
Holy Trinity Jesuits are committed to full compliance with these additional requirements.
Resources for Parents (tip: open these PDFs in Chrome for best results)
Child Protection in the Archdiocese of Washington
Keeping Your Children Safe Online
Talking Your Children about Relationships
Bullying: A Guide for Children
How to Talk to Your Children About Pornography