Dioceses working to apply charter; Lincoln balks at aspects

Published: 2004-01-06

WASHINGTON (CNS) -- Several dioceses not in compliance with aspects of the U.S. bishops' sex abuse policies and practices said they are working to implement them. A statement from the Diocese of Lincoln, Neb., however, citing "serious pastoral reasons," said it will continue not to comply with some of the policies. A report on the audits of 191 U.S. dioceses and eparchies -- Eastern Catholic dioceses -- was released in Washington Jan. 6 and listed 20 jurisdictions as not in full compliance. Another 14 had not yet implemented recommendations for improvement, but were considered in compliance. The audits were done by the Gavin Group, a private organization contracted by the bishops. Many dioceses in compliance with all aspects of the U.S. bishops' 2002 "Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People" said this was a sign of their commitment to fight clergy sex abuse of minors. Meanwhile, an advocacy group of victims of clergy sex abuse said the audits were "fundamentally flawed" as "the bishops are judging themselves."

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