Child Protection & Safe Environment

The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington is committed to keeping children safe and to bringing healing to those harmed. Here you can learn more about our child protection policy; sign up for background checks and training if you are seeking to work or volunteer with young people in the archdiocese; and if you have been a victim of child sexual abuse and adult abuse, please contact the Office of Child and Youth Protection & Safe Environment at 301-853-5328, so you may receive the assistance you need.

“What I can and must do is express again how profoundly sorry I am for past acts of abuse that occurred within our cherished Church.

Our Archdiocese remains steadfastly committed to providing a safe environment for all young people entrusted to our care.”

– Cardinal Wilton Gregory

Screenshot of a letter from Cardinal GregoryClick here to read the full text of Cardinal Wilton Gregory’s letter to people in The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington, published by the Catholic Standard on Sept. 29, 2023.

The archdiocese has had a written Child Protection Policy since 1986. The policy covers reporting, prevention and healing. It mandates reporting to civil authorities; education for children and adults; and background checks for clergy, employees and volunteers who work with minors. Also included is information on assistance for those harmed and what to do if there is an allegation. A Child Protection Advisory Board of predominantly lay experts advises on and monitors compliance with child protection efforts.

Reporting

Parent Guides

Volunteer and Employee Information

 Accountability

National Child Protection Efforts and Resources

Bullying Prevention and Response Resources

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God of endless love, ever caring, ever strong, always present, always just: you gave your only Son to save us by the blood of his cross.

Gentle Jesus, shepherd of peace, join to your own suffering the pain of all who have been hurt in body, mind, and spirit by those who betrayed the trust placed in them.

Hear the cries of our brothers and sisters who have been gravely harmed, and the cries of those who love them. Soothe their restless hearts with hope, steady their shaken spirits with faith. Grant them justice for their cause, enlightened by your truth.

Holy Spirit, comforter of hearts, heal your people’s wounds and transform brokenness into wholeness. Grant us the courage and wisdom, humility and grace, to act with justice. Breathe wisdom into our prayers and labors. Grant that all harmed by abuse may find peace in justice. We ask this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.