Protection of Children and Vulnerable Adults

The Priests of the Sacred Heart (Dehonians) believe that the safety of all people, but especially children, is paramount. We have put in place standards of conduct for members of the religious order, as well as employees and others who represent the community through their work and/or ministry. These standards are known as The Instruments of Hope and Healing which are the standards that have been adopted by the Conference of Major Superiors of Men (CMSM). The Priests of the Sacred Heart are accredited by Praesidium, Inc., a national organization that works with religious and other institutions to establish and maintain rigorous standards for protecting children and vulnerable adults.  As a part of this accreditation, all members of the Priests of the Sacred Heart undergo regular training that addresses both the prevention of misconduct and the responsibility to report known conduct violations. The US Province of the Priests of the Sacred Heart is regularly audited by Praesidium to ensure that the province continues to maintain these standards

Background checks are conducted regularly on all members of the province,  all applicants to the religious order, as well as those seeking employment with the Priests of the Sacred Heart.

Policies

Policies and Standards of the US Province of the Priests of the Sacred Heart

Praesidium Accreditation Standards for Catholic Men’s Religious Institutes

US Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Charter for the Protection of Young People

Reporting abuse

If you, or someone you know, is being abused we urge you to immediately contact your local law enforcement agency. If you believe that someone is in imminent danger, or the concern regards a minor, please call 911.

In regard to an allegation of past abuse, again, we suggest that you contact civil authorities to file a report.

You can also contact our Victim Assistance Coordinator for help in filing a complaint. Click here to do so, or call 817-600-9020.