From Judge Timothy O’Malley, Director of Ministerial Standards and Safe Environment
The Boston Globe investigation was a watershed event in the Church and throughout the country. The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) responded with the Dallas Charter in 2002, an historic set of policies, protocols and practices to keep children safe. The Dallas Charter set nationwide standards that we continue to develop and implement in our local Church. This Archdiocese is also committed to working with others, as reflected in the Doe 1 Agreement and the Settlement Agreement with the Ramsey County Attorney’s Office. We are grateful for those opportunities to work with others to promote safe environments.
I saw “Spotlight” and believe that the Academy Award for Best Picture is well deserved. I encourage others to see the movie. It tells a compelling story, highlights the courage and import of survivors’ voices, shows the power of journalism and the merit of searching for the truth – no matter how difficult or painful. Movies like “Spotlight” raise awareness and, in turn, help us maintain safe environments for all.
