1. Introduction
The Old Orthodox Church of Jerusalem is fully committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all members, especially children and vulnerable adults. Sexual abuse, in any form, is a grievous violation of trust, and the Church takes such allegations with utmost seriousness. This policy provides a clear, structured procedure for reporting and addressing allegations of sexual abuse within the diocese. It applies to all clergy, staff, volunteers, and parishioners.
2. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to:
- Establish a clear process for reporting sexual abuse.
- Ensure allegations are handled promptly, confidentially, and in a manner that respects the dignity of all involved.
- Protect minors and vulnerable adults from harm.
- Uphold the integrity of the Church’s mission to provide a safe and supportive environment for all.
3. Definitions
- Sexual Abuse: Any form of sexual conduct or exploitation by clergy, staff, or volunteers with a minor or vulnerable adult. This includes, but is not limited to, physical contact, verbal abuse, or inappropriate online behaviour.
- Minor: A person under the age of 18.
- Vulnerable Adult: Any adult who lacks the mental or physical capacity to fully consent or protect themselves.
- Victim: A person who has suffered sexual abuse.
- Alleged Offender: The person accused of sexual abuse.
4. Scope
This policy covers:
- Allegations involving clergy (priests, deacons, seminarians).
- Allegations involving staff and volunteers.
- Allegations occurring within the diocesan institutions, parishes, schools, or during Church-related activities.
5. Reporting Guidelines
5.1. Who Should Report?
- Mandatory Reporters: All clergy, staff, and volunteers of the diocese are required to report any suspicion of sexual abuse immediately. This includes teachers, youth ministers, and those working in ministries that involve minors or vulnerable adults.
- Voluntary Reporters: Parishioners, parents, and others who suspect sexual abuse are encouraged to report any concerns. All members of the Church community have a moral responsibility to protect the vulnerable.
5.2. What Should Be Reported?
Any known or suspected instance of sexual abuse must be reported. This includes:
- Direct disclosure by the victim.
- Observed behaviour indicating sexual abuse.
- Rumours, concerns, or overheard conversations that raise suspicion.
5.3. How to Report
All reports should be made to the Bishop’s Office as soon as possible. The following methods of reporting are available:
- In-Person Reporting: A report can be made directly at the diocesan office during working hours. The complainant will meet with a designated diocesan official to provide details.
- Phone Reporting: A report may be made via the diocesan telephone. The line is available 24/7 and allows individuals to report anonymously if they wish.
- Online Reporting: Reports can be submitted through the diocese’s secure online portal. This allows for anonymous submissions if desired.
- Written Reporting: A letter can be sent to the Bishop’s Office outlining the allegation, including any evidence or observations that led to the suspicion.
In cases involving minors, local law enforcement or child protective services must be contacted immediately, as per state laws. The diocese will cooperate fully with civil authorities throughout the investigation.
5.4. What Information Should Be Provided?
When making a report, the following information should be provided if available:
- The name and contact information of the victim (or their guardian, if applicable).
- The name and role of the alleged offender.
- A detailed description of the incident(s), including date(s), time(s), and location(s).
- Any witnesses to the alleged abuse.
- Any additional relevant information (e.g., previous concerns about the alleged offender).
6. Response to Reports
6.1. Acknowledgment of Report
Upon receiving a report, the Bishop’s Office will:
- Acknowledge the report within 24 hours (or as soon as possible if received over a weekend or holiday).
- Ensure the victim is offered immediate pastoral care, counselling, and support services.
6.2. Initial Assessment
- The Bishop’s Office will conduct an initial assessment of the report, including a review of all submitted information.
- If the report involves an active threat to the victim’s safety or the safety of others, immediate protective actions will be taken, including contacting civil authorities.
6.3. Investigation
- Internal Church Investigation: The diocese will initiate an internal investigation to ascertain the facts. This process is overseen by the Diocesan Review Board, a group of independent lay experts, who will assess the case and make recommendations to the Bishop.
- The alleged offender will likely be placed on administrative leave during the investigation.
- The investigation should be thorough, impartial, and confidential. All parties will be given the opportunity to present their side.
- Cooperation with Civil Authorities: In cases where the abuse involves a minor or criminal behaviour, the Church will cooperate fully with law enforcement. The internal investigation will not interfere with any ongoing criminal investigation.
6.4. Actions Following the Investigation
- If Allegations Are Substantiated: If the investigation finds credible evidence of abuse, the offender will be permanently removed from ministry or Church employment. In accordance with policy provided by the Holy See, the offender will never again serve in any position that could bring them into contact with minors or vulnerable adults. Excommunication is likely. Law enforcement will be notified if not already involved.
- If Allegations Are Not Substantiated: If the investigation does not find sufficient evidence, the alleged offender may be reinstated, depending on the case’s specifics. Efforts will be made to restore their reputation and standing within the Church community.
7. Confidentiality
The diocese is committed to maintaining the confidentiality of all reports and investigations. However, complete confidentiality cannot be guaranteed when legal obligations to report to civil authorities exist. Sensitive information will only be shared on a need-to-know basis and in accordance with legal requirements.
8. Prevention and Training
- All clergy, staff, and volunteers must undergo Safe Environment Training and agree to background checks before serving in any capacity within the diocese.
- The diocese will regularly update and reinforce training, focusing on recognising signs of abuse and how to handle suspicions or disclosures.
9. Support for Victims
The Church recognises the deep trauma that victims of sexual abuse endure. The diocese is committed to:
- Offering counselling, spiritual guidance, and pastoral care to victims and their families.
- Providing referrals to appropriate psychological and medical services.
- Ensuring that victims are treated with dignity and compassion throughout the reporting and investigative process.
10. Retaliation Prohibition
Any retaliation against individuals who report sexual abuse in good faith, or who participate in the investigation, is strictly prohibited. Anyone found engaging in retaliatory behaviour will face disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or removal from ministry.
11. Review and Revision
This policy will be reviewed regularly, and updates will be made as necessary to ensure compliance with both Church and civil laws. Clergy, staff, and volunteers will be informed of any changes to this policy and retrained accordingly.
November 3, 2022
