February 7, 2007

My Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ:

In response to the terrible scandals of sexual and physical abuse committed by clergy and church employees over the last decades, my brother bishops and I implemented the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People (USCCB, 2003). The Charter represents our commitment “with God’s help and in full collaboration with our people, to continue to work to restore the bonds of trust that unite us”. (USCCB, 2003. 3). 

In this Charter, we have committed ourselves to establish ‘safe environment’ programs and to provide education and training for children, youth, parents, ministers, educators, and others about ways to make and maintain a safe environment for children. Although the Archdiocese is engaged in this process, I have become aware of the need to focus more attention on providing educational opportunities for our children and youth. I believe by educating youth and children about issues of personal safety, we can help raise awareness in order to both discourage sexual and physical abuse, and recognize it as quickly as possible.

While we will continue to be engaged in this educational process in a number of forums, using a variety of methods, I have approved the use of two programs. The first, “Called to Protect” produced by Praesidium, will be used in the Archdiocesan schools. The second program, “You Matter” produced by the Archdiocese of Atlanta and used here with their permission, is designed to be used in parish based faith formation classes.

I am satisfied that both of these educational programs are age and grade appropriate and are consistent with the faith and teachings of the Catholic Church. If you have any specific questions, please don’t hesitate to contact Sr. Jackie Stoll, OP the Archdiocesan Safe Environment Coordinator at 297-7736.

Sincerely Yours in Christ and Mary,

+ Roger L. Schwietz, OMI