The Archdiocese of Baltimore is committed to providing a safe environment for children and youth.  Please use the following links to learn more:

Help and Healing
Statement of Policy (Español)
Code of Conduct (Español)
Requirements for Volunteers
Requirements for Employees
Responsible Administrators/Screening Coordinators
STAND Online Training
Talking With Your Children About Abuse
From the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops
Commitment to Action
USCCB Charter
Contact Us

We believe that God’s people have the right to healthy ministry and to quality pastoral care.

We believe that at the heart of this ministry is a relationship with God, a desire for holiness, and a commitment to live in right relationship with God’s people.

We believe that the protection of those children and youth entrusted to the church’s care is of paramount interest.

We believe that those who work in the church have grace influenced power to do great good for children and youth.  When that grace influenced power is misused, it can result in great harm and unspeakable pain.

We believe that when a representative of the church commits child abuse, emotional, spiritual, physical and/or psychological damage occurs.

We believe that the Church must continue to reach out to those who are victims of child abuse with the very compassion of Christ.

We recognize our responsibility to provide avenues of healing for those who are victims and for their families.

We recognize our responsibility to observe the requirements of civil law regarding prompt reporting of suspected child abuse and to continue cooperating with civil authorities.

We recognize there are instances where the state may not prosecute even though a credible allegation has been made.  Our standard requires us to take appropriate action to promote the safety of children and youth.

We recognize our responsibilities as an employer: Church personnel are entitled to fair treatment under the church and civil law.

The Archdiocese of Baltimore will work to produce a healthy and nurturing environment for our children and youth.  We will strive to make our Church a safe environment for them.  We will exclude from ministry, employment and volunteer service anyone against whom there is a credible allegation of child abuse.  We will ensure that victims are offered quality pastoral care and counseling.  We will affirm the efforts of people who provide appropriate and loving outreach to the children and youth of the Archdiocese of Baltimore.