Victim Assistance Coordinator

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Link to USCCB Child and Youth Protection, Charter,...

Letter of Promulgation

Sexual Misconduct Policy

Diocesan Code of Conduct

Sex and Cell Phones

Child Safety Links

A Safe Environment
for Children and Young People

The Catholic Diocese of Rapid City is committed to creating and maintaining the safest possible environment for our children and young people.

The Safe Environment Program for the Diocese of Rapid City is managed by Linda Severns, the director of religious education. For information about the program, contact her at 605.343.3541.

All priests, deacons, and lay employees, as well as adult volunteers who work with children and young people, must pass a background check and receive Safe Environment Training.

All children and young people involved in diocesan, parish, or school programs and their parents/guardians are offered annual age-appropriate Safe Environment Training.

Victim Assistance Coordinator

To report allegations of sexual abuse by church personnel, contact the Victim Assistance Coordinator, Maryann Tully, at 605.209.3418 (cell). Phone has caller ID and messaging features.

She has 41 years of experience as a nurse dealing with confidential matters. To ensure confidentiality in her outreach to victims, she can be contacted privately at the number listed above.

All information will be treated confidentially. Alleged victims are advised of their right to report alleged abuse to civil authorities.

In accordance with diocesan policy, all allegations of sexual misconduct involving children or young people and priests, deacons, lay employees, or volunteers serving the Diocese of Rapid City will be investigated by the Diocesan Review Board.