10 Years Later the Vatican Revisits Child Protection Guidelines

Will the Vatican’s sex abuse policy set for unveiling later this year make significant strides to ensure that pedophiles are removed from ministry and that child-safety standards are tightened worldwide?

Cardinal Levada’s letter announcing the effort last May listed nine recommendations for bishops and episcopal conferences to consider:

• Sexual abuse of minors is a grave crime, so all credible allegations should be referred to the Vatican.

• Reporters the abuse should be treated with respect.

• The local Church should offer spiritual and psychological assistance to victims.

• Initial inquiries into allegations should respect privacy and the good name of those involved.

• Accused priests should be informed of accusations and given opportunity to respond unless a serious reason exists not to.

• Ultimate responsibility for handling cases lies with the local bishop, although advisory groups or experts can assist.

• Law in each country regarding reporting of such allegations to civil authorities should be followed.

• During investigation, the local Church still has a duty of care towards the accused person.

• While always innocent till proven guilty, priests can be removed from public ministry if their continued presence would endanger minors or cause scandal.

At the time the letter was distributed, the United States, United Kingdom, Germany and Ireland already had similar guidelines, but the Vatican said it wanted to encourage others to do the same.