Assistance for Victims of Sexual Abuse by Diocesan Personnel
What happens when you report sexual abuse?
If a call or letter comes to the vicar general alleging sexual abuse of a minor,
our approach is always pastoral. Our first and foremost concern is to offer
comfort and healing. Claimants always may contact civil authorities, attorneys,
or media representatives.
The vicar general invites the person making the complaint to meet with the
Response Team and the victim's advocate. This team includes persons who are required by law to report any suspected current sexual abuse of
minors.
At the meeting, the team listens to the victim's experience and tries to determine
the circumstances through further investigation. The allegations and the
evidence are referred to the Independent Review Board.
The Independent Review Board reviews cases and makes recommendations to
the bishop about the status of the accused and fitness for church ministry.
Diocesan policy states that any person permanently withdrawn from ministry on
the recommendation of the Independent Review Board may not return to
ministry.
Throughout the process, the victim advocate assists with the healing process.
She listens, offers support, and suggests counseling resources for victims and
families.
As a faith community, the diocese wants any person who ever has been abused
by a priest or employee of the diocese to come forward with the confidence that
they will be heard and helped.
In addition to making a report to the proper civil authorities, please make a report to the diocese by contacting:
Reverend Msgr. Robert Murphy, Vicar General
Kansas City Area ~ 816.756-1850
Toll Free ~ 800.246-1850
As early as 1988, the diocese had policies in place that provided for lay
involvement in the process of responding to allegations of sexual abuse. The
Immediate Response Team and the Independent Review Board are expected to
review cases with independence and objectivity.
What to do if you need to talk with someone
In addition to a wide variety of mental health organizations, Catholic Charities
offers individual and family counseling through Counseling Solutions.
Catholic Charities Counseling Solutions
(816) 333-2040
Toll Free Numbers for Catholic Charities
(800) 875-4377 (Kansas City)
(888) 629-2886 (St. Joseph)
(888) 626-4245 (Warrensburg)
¿Qué hacer si usted necesita hablar con alguien?
En adición a una bastante grande variedad de organizaciones de salud mental,
Caridades Católicas ofrece consejo para individuos y/o familias.
Soluciones de Asesoramiento
(816) 333-2040
Números especiales y gratuitos:
(800) 875-4377 (Kansas City)
(888) 629-2886 (St. Joseph)
(888) 626-4245 (Warrensburg)