Sexual Abuse Guide

A Steadfast Committment to Helping those Affected.

The Franciscan Friars of the Atonement recognize that sexual misconduct by Friars has devastating consequences for victims and their families. We are aware of the effects of this tragic behavior and are steadfastly committed to helping those affected.

This Victim’s Guide provides information on:

1. What is sexual misconduct within ministerial relationships;
2. What the procedures are for responding to complaints of sexually inappropriate behavior;
3. To whom victims of sexual misconduct can turn for help.

A ministerial relationship is one which a person receives pastoral care from priests, brothers, sisters, spiritual directors and pastoral counselors, among other church workers.

SEXUAL MISCONDUCT

Sexual misconduct is a general term that includes sexual harassment, sexual exploitation, and sexual abuse.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT

Sexual harassment is unwanted sexualized conduct or language between co-workers in the ministerial setting. It may include, but is not limited to 1) unsolicited sexual advances and propositions; 2) the use of sexually degrading words to describe an individual or his/her body; 3) the telling of inappropriate or sexually-charged jokes; 4) retaliation against a co-worker who refuses sexual advances; and 5) offers of preferential treatment such as promotions, positive performance evaluations, or favorably-assigned duties or shifts in exchange for sexual favors.

SEXUAL EXPLOITATION

Sexual Exploitation consists of sexual contact between a Friar and person receiving pastoral care from him.

SEXUAL ABUSE

Sexual exploitation or sexual abuse can include physical contact or actions. Sexual touch or other physical contact that makes the person being touched feel uncomfortable, such as:

• Giving a sexually-charged gift, such as lingerie
• A prolonged hug when a brief hug is customary behavior
• Kissing on the lips when a kiss on the cheek would be appropriate
• Showing sexually-suggestive objects or pornography
• Sexual intercourse, anal, or oral sex.

Sexual exploitation or sexual abuse can also include verbal behavior such as:

• Innuendo or sexual talk
• Suggestive comments
• Description of sexual experiences, fantasies Sexual propositions

It is not uncommon for those who seek the church’s ministry to feel attracted to a religious or to be flattered by his attention. A layperson’s attraction to a Friar or enjoyment in being the object of his sexual interest does not excuse any form of sexual misconduct on his part, however. It is entirely the responsibility of the Friar to maintain appropriate emotional and sexual boundaries with those with whom he works and/or serves.

The Friars respond to all allegations of sexual misconduct with great care. To ensure that we handle each instance promptly, thoroughly, and compassionately. The Minister General of the Friars is personally committed to listen to, understand, and offer help, including appropriate psychological counseling for those affected by sexual misconduct.

The Minister General together with a pastoral team of Friars from other religious communities and independent investigators will respond swiftly to evaluate and investigate any accusation of sexual misconduct by a Friar.

A Friar who has engaged in the sexual abuse of a minor will be subject to a Safety Plan. This rigorous relapse prevention program provides appropriate psychological treatment designed by professionals for offenders, and entails ongoing monitoring and supervision for the rest of his life in the community.

The Friars of the Atonement, consistent with the directives of the Catholic Bishop’s Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, are subject to an independent Review Board. This interdisciplinary board of religious and lay professionals advises the Friars on all matters related to sexual misconduct.

PREVENTING SEXUAL MISCONDUCT

In addition to establishing procedures for responding to sexual misconduct, the Friars of the Atonement have undertaken a series of measures to prevent future incidents of abuse. These include extensive mandatory psychological evaluation of postulants before they enter the community, and providing continuing education programs for the Friars about issues of sexuality and personal conduct.

TOGETHER TO PROTECT

It is our firm belief that Friars must maintain appropriate boundaries with lay persons in order to preserve the integrity of the ministerial relationship.

Moreover, we call upon those with knowledge of a Friar’s inappropriate behavior, whether past or present, to come forward with this information so that innocent victims may be spared from further harm. In short, we ask everyone to join with us to protect the safety of children, women, and men and, with firm determination, to promote healing where there is pain.

If you or someone you know believes that a Friar has violated the boundaries outlined in this brochure, we urge you to report such behavior immediately to the Minister General. Your case will be handled with the strictest sensitivity and confidentiality.

Contact information for the Franciscan Friars of the Atonement:

Office of the Minister General
V. Rev. Brian F. Terry, SA
40 Franciscan Way
Garrison, NY 10524
(845) 424-2113
ministergen@atonementfriars.org