November 12, 2010

Dear Friends in Christ,

The Diocese of Winona is committed to keeping our youth and vulnerable adults as safe as possible from sexually abusive situations.  With the adoption by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People (2002, 2005), this commitment to our youth is reviewed by auditors to measure compliance with the Charter.

I support the Diocese’s Safe Environment Program which includes background checks, safe environment sessions, and the reading and signing of our Code of Conduct for adults involved in pastoral ministry.  I also support the curriculum choices that are presently being used for our children and young people.

I am grateful for the pastors, Catholic school principals and directors of faith formation who have worked together to implement both the adult and youth programs.  I expect that these leaders will continue to gather the information needed for the Audit Reports and all other related forms and submit them in a timely manner so that we will be able to demonstrate our commitment to the protection of our children and young people.

Please join with me in ensuring this commitment to our youth.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Reverend John M. Quinn
Bishop of Winona