As Christians, we affirm that every person reflects God’s image and is called to holiness, forming the foundation of human dignity. We are responsible for safeguarding this dignity, especially in children. They must be protected in our homes, schools, worship communities, and the broader society. Sexual abuse of a minor is both a grave sin and a crime that causes profound harm. This policy outlines prevention, reporting, investigation, and support measures to protect minors in the Diocese and assist those affected by abuse.

Our Goal: Our parish is committed to creating and maintaining a safe, caring, and holy environment for all children, young people, and families. As part of our ongoing Safe Environment efforts, we want to ensure that every parishioner is aware of two important areas of responsibility outlined by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB):

1. Diocesan/Eparchial Policies and Procedures: Our diocese/eparchy has established clear policies and procedures to protect children and young people, in accordance with the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People. These policies guide how we prevent abuse, respond to concerns, and support victims. Parishioners are encouraged to review these policies, which are publicly available through our Diocesan Safe Environment office.

2. Standards of Conduct for Clergy, Staff, and Volunteers: All clergy, employees, catechists, and volunteers who work with or around minors follow a Code of Conduct that outlines expectations for appropriate behavior, boundaries, and accountability. These standards help ensure that every adult in a position of trust acts with integrity and respect. These guidelines are available for all parishioners to read and understand.

If you have questions or would like access to these documents, please contact the parish office or our Safe Environment Local Site Admin. Thank you for your commitment to helping us maintain a community where every child is valued, protected, and safe.

• 1. St. Thomas Syro Malabar Catholic Diocese website: Click
• 2. USCCB website: Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People | USCCB Click
• 3. VIRTUS website: VIRTUS Click
• 4. Code of Conduct: Click

Reporting: Anyone sexually abused as a minor or who knows about a case of sexual abuse of a minor should immediately report it to the civil authorities. When such sexual abuse has been committed by a cleric, religious, seminarian, diocesan or parish employee or a diocesan or parish volunteer it also should be reported to the Bishop of St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic Diocese of Chicago through the Committee for Sexual Abuse Investigation at +1 (224) 225-9121. Reporting can be made at any hour of the day.

Child Abuse/Neglect Hotline
St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Diocese Safe Environment Hotline: 224-225-9121
Virginia: 804-786-8536