Every person who works or volunteers for the Church in a setting with children must undergo a background check and receive training on safe environment. This means nearly 18,000 people in our Diocese know the warning signs of predatory behavior, know the Diocese’s code of conduct and know how to report suspicious activity of anyone who might want to harm children. The most recent incident of physical sexual abuse of a minor in our Diocese occurred in 1997.

If you or someone you know has been abused or victimized by someone representing the Catholic Church, believe in the possibility for hope, help and healing. Please contact our Victim Assistance Coordinator, Nancy Hoey, at 573-694-3199 or reportabuse@diojeffcity.org. Also contact the Missouri Child Abuse & Neglect Hotline at 1-800-392-3738 or the Missouri Adult Abuse & Neglect Hotline at 1-800-392-0210.

Every allegation of abuse by someone representing the Catholic Church, whether it concerns a minor or an adult, is reviewed by an independent group of professionals. The bishop has used a confidential consultative body since 1991. Today, the Diocesan Review Board is comprised of 24 individuals. Their professional and personal expertise includes attorney-at-law, counseling, criminal justice, education (including a Catholic school principal), human resources, law enforcement, pastoral ministry (including a pastor), pediatrics, psychiatry, and social services. The bishop relies on their recommendations to determine how to respond to allegations of sexual misconduct or abuse.

Every candidate for the priesthood and diaconate undergoes a thorough investigation and formation. Seminarians and diaconal candidates for the Diocese of Jefferson City are required to undergo psychological screening, receive safe environment training and criminal record checks, and receive formation in psychosexual development.