Safe Environment

As ministers within the Catholic Church and brothers to all, our life as Capuchin Franciscan Friars is rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Like so many within the Church, we have come to understand the complex harm caused by the acts of sexual abuse committed by clergy and religious, both to those directly harmed and also to their families and to the Church at large. Although we are unable to undo the past, we are deeply sorry for times in the past when we have failed to protect those we have served. Given this understanding, we are committed to responding with compassion and care to anyone who comes forward with an allegation of sexual abuse by a friar of our Province.

We have learned that it can be very difficult and painful to share a story of sexual abuse. However, if you or someone you know has experienced sexual abuse by a friar, employee or volunteer for the Capuchin Province of the Sacred Stigmata of St. Francis, no matter where or when, we urge you to:

• Call law enforcement and submit a report. Contact the police, district attorney or sheriff's office where the abuse occurred: www.usacops.com
• You may also wish to speak with our Victim Assistance Coordinator who can assist you in making a formal complaint. We will strive to maintain confidentiality although we must comply with legal requirements to report sexual abuse of a minor. Call our Province Office at (201) 865-6107 or email Amy Peterson our Victim Assistance Coordinator at apetersonwi@gmail.com for more information.