The Bishops of the United States gathered in Dallas, Texas in June 2002 to focus on and respond to the abuse crisis in the Catholic Church.  Having heard the stories fo victims/survivors and pleas  that the children and youth e brotected from the horrors of abuse, having a desiere to provide for children's safety and protection, working twoard accountability to God and God's people, and in a commitment to healing, the bishops deveoped the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People.

This Charter has at it's heart a commitment to reconciliation, healing accountability and prevention of future acts of abuse.  Through it's guidance the Church is dedicated to assuring a safe environment where ministry for children and young people can be carried out in a secure and healthy setting.  Importantly, the Charter is also committed to healing and reconciliation for victims and survivors of abuse, effective and quick attention to all allegations, effective cooperation with civil authorities, disciplining of offenders, and a means of accountability for the future to ensure this problem is effectively dealt with in the most responsible manner.

According to the terms of the Charter all dioceses/eparchies are to extablish safe environment programs.  Also,, they are to cooperate with parents, civil authorities, educators and community organizations to provide education and training for children, youth, parents, educators, volunteers, parish communities, religious and clergy.  Furher, dioceses/eparchies are to make clear to clergy and all members of the community the standards of conduct expected of clergy and other persons in positions of trust with regard to ministry to children and young people.