Policies

Under the guidance of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, and in cooperation with the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, the Diocese of Fairbanks Abuse Policy states best practices in ensuring the safety of all the Church’s children. The Diocese also pledges adherence to Canon Law and full, open cooperation with local law-enforcement in responding to reports of abuse involving Church clergy, religious, employees, and volunteers. 

Adherence to the Diocese's Safe Environment Policies is mandatory for all clergy (bishops, priests, deacons) incardinated or assigned or residing in the Diocese who assist in ministry, all seminarians, those assigned to pastoral ministry or formation in the Diocese, all those in Consecrated Life (men and women), and all Church personnel (all employees of the Diocese, a parish, and all Catholic schools; all volunteers for the Diocese, parish, schools, or other institutions; and independent contractors (and subcontractors) in the employ of the Diocese, parish, school, or other institution). Additional questions or requests for information may be addressed by email to: [email protected]. 

File: Abuse Policy 2022

With the 2018 revision of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, together the United States Bishops and the Diocese of Fairbanks re-affirm our deep commitment to creating a safe environment within the Church for children and youth. Therefore the following policies stem from our commitment to the protection of young people and our desire to stand in solidarity with them as we minister to their multi-faceted development in faith.

While not every situation or combination of events can be addressed in a policy manual, what follows are the foundational precepts by which ministry to youth can be offered in a safe and sound manner. When an unforeseen event arises that may deviate from these policies, adult leaders and chaperones are encouraged to first address the immediate concern and to notify the Office of Faith & Family Formation as soon as possible for clarification and advice.

All adult leaders in ministry are reminded that because of their role as Church Personnel, they have the responsibility to conduct themselves in a way that is beyond reproach and always in the best interests of the young people.

File: Activities with Youth 2022

The Safe Environment program includes a code of conduct for adults involved in ministry. The Code of Professional Conduct establishes acceptable behavior that is legal, professional, and responsible. All church personnel (bishops, clergy, religious, and employees) and volunteers acknowledge and accept the code of conduct upon completion of the on-line or off-line training course. Written copies of policies are available at all parishes and are also provided to any employee or volunteers who do not have on-line access or prefer to have the policy in writing.

File: Code of Conduct 2022

Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People – revised 2018
This charter sets the tone for the culture which the Church is trying to establish in response to the sex abuse crisis which has devastated so many people. Reconciliation, healing, accountability, and transparency is the backbone of the Charter. To read this document in its entirety, click here.