The Diocese of Saint Petersburg is committed to fostering a culture of accountability, transparency, and protection throughout all areas of diocesan life. Guided by the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People and rooted in our responsibility to care for the vulnerable. The Diocese maintains policies and procedures that promote oversight, independent review, transparency, and ongoing compliance with Safe Environment standards.
Through independent audits, diocesan review boards, and the public disclosure of substantiated allegations, we seek to uphold trust, ensure accountability, and respond with integrity and compassion. These efforts reflect our ongoing commitment to protecting children and vulnerable adults while supporting healing, justice, and the mission of the Church.
Transparency Matters
Public disclosure is one part of the Diocese’s ongoing commitment to accountability, healing, and the prevention of abuse.
Audits and Reporting
The Diocese of Saint Petersburg participates in annual independent audits to ensure compliance with the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People established by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. These audits review diocesan policies, training programs, reporting procedures, and accountability practices to help ensure continued compliance and transparency.
Our Ongoing Commitment
The Diocese of Saint Petersburg remains committed to protecting children, supporting survivors, promoting transparency, and strengthening trust through continued accountability, education, and pastoral care. Together, we strive to foster safe environments rooted in dignity, justice, compassion, and the healing love of Jesus Christ.
The Diocese has consistently worked to maintain compliance with national Safe Environment standards and continues to strengthen policies, education, and accountability measures across all ministries.
Consultative Bodies
The Diocesan Review Board serves as a confidential consultative body that assists the Bishop in reviewing allegations of abuse involving clergy and minors. The board is primarily composed of laypersons not employed by the Diocese and provides guidance regarding investigations, policies, and appropriate responses in accordance with Church and civil law.
In addition to our Diocesan Review Board, lay members of the faithful also comprise parts of our Diocesan Seminary Board and our Diaconate Admissions and Scrutinies Board. Both consultative bodies assist the Bishop in reviewing and interviewing potential candidates for the priesthood and diaconate.
Purpose of the Diocesan Review Board
The Diocesan Review Board serves as a confidential consultative body that meets at a minimum yearly, or more frequently as needed, to assist the bishop with the following:
Responsibilities:
- Review allegations
- Advise the Bishop
- Evaluate policies and procedures
- Promote accountability
- Support best practices
Board Composition
The board is primarily composed of lay professionals with expertise in fields such as law, mental health, education, child protection, and pastoral care.
Review Board Policy
Essential Norms for Diocesan/Eparchial Policies Dealing with Allegations of Sexual Abuse of Minors by Priests or Deacons.
Review Board Bylaws
To see the by-laws of the Review Board for the Diocese of Saint Petersburg, please click the following link:
Disqualified Individuals
As part of its commitment to accountability and transparency, the Diocese of Saint Petersburg publicly shares the names of clergy and laypersons who have admitted to or have been determined to have committed sexual abuse of a minor while serving in ministry. The Diocese remains committed to communicating openly while respecting the privacy and dignity of those involved.