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Press Release

Background Sheet:
Initiatives Regarding Child and Youth Protection
January 2003

On April 4, 2002, Cardinal Bevilacqua establishes the Commission on the Protection of Children and Clerical Conduct, chaired by Ms. Helen Alvaré, a professor of law at Catholic University in Washington, D.C. Goal of the Commission: to provide Cardinal Bevilacqua with recommendations which will enable the Archdiocese to protect children by eradicating sexual abuse as much as humanly possible and to strengthen outreach for victims and their families.

On June 6, 2002, Cardinal Bevilacqua announces the members of the Commission on the Protection of Children and Clerical Conduct. The Commission members, chosen for expertise in their fields, includes lay people who are both Catholic and non-Catholic.

On June 8, 2002, the Commission holds its first meeting and begins reviewing Archdiocesan policies and procedures.

In June 2002, the Archdiocese creates a new Office of Victims Assistance with two lay social workers serving as victims assistance coordinators who become the first point of contact for those making reports of abuse and help victims secire appropriate counseling and pastoral support when needed.

During Fall 2002, Cardinal Bevilacqua meets individually with victims.

On October 1, 2002, Cardinal Bevilacqua appoints a Lay Review Board to assist in assessing any abuse allegations against priests. The six-member board, consisting of five lay persons and one priest, exists on an interim basis. The Review Board is to be establishes on a permanent basis following the final report of the Commission on the Protection of Children and Clerical Conduct.

The Archdiocese is creating standards of ministerial behavior that will specify a comprehensive code of professional conduct expected from clergy and all who work for the Church.

The Archdiocese is working on "safe environment" programs that will be implemented in all offices, schools and parishes.