Policies+for+Maintaining+Ethical+Ministry+with+Minors+-+2023+FINAL - Flipbook - Page 3
Policy for Maintaining Ethical Ministry with Minors
Section A
Standards of Conduct for Ministry with Minors
This Policy for Maintaining Ethical Ministry with Minors (“Policy”) is intended to assist Christian Brothers of the Midwest, hereinafter the “District,” in making decisions about interactions with minors. This policy, while directed to public ministry, also applies to
personal relationships such as those involving family and friends. Brothers are expected to adhere to the following ethical standards and specific behavioral guidelines in all aspects of their personal and ministerial lives.
A Brother may be a professed religious of the District, a Novice, or a Postulant.
A Brother includes living and deceased current and former Brothers of the District. Former members are included only if inappropriate behavior occurred during the time of their membership in the District.
A minor is anyone under the age of 18. For the purposes of this Policy, the term “minors” also includes adults with physical
or mental disabilities or limitations who are uniquely vulnerable to abuse.
Abuse and neglect of minors are contrary to the teachings of the Church and are prohibited. Brothers have a responsibility to protect minors from all forms of abuse and neglect.
1. Prohibited Behaviors
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
j.
k.
l.
Using, possessing, or being under the influence of illegal drugs while in the presence of minors
Consuming alcohol in excess while working with minors: A Brother may only consume alcohol in the presence of
minors while at a meal or other social event or gathering where it is socially acceptable for a responsible adult to consume alcohol, and at least two other adults are present and are also consuming alcohol.
Providing, or allowing minors to consume alcohol or use illegal drugs
Swearing or using vulgar language in the presence of minors
Discussing sexual activities with minors unless it is a specific job requirement and the Brother is trained to discuss
these matters
Engaging in any sexually oriented conversations with minors unless the conversations are part of a legitimate lesson
and discussion regarding human sexuality issues: On such occasions, the lessons will convey to youth the Church’s
teachings on these topics. If youth have further questions not answered or addressed by their individual teachers,
they should be referred to their parents or guardians for clarification or counseling
Being nude or immodestly clothed in the presence of minors.
Sharing changing and showering facilities with minors: Arrangements for Brothers must be separate from the facilities or arrangements for minors.
Possessing or knowingly allowing minors to possess sexually oriented or morally inappropriate materials including,
but not limited to, magazines, cards, videos, films, DVDs, or clothing
Sleeping in the same beds, sleeping bags, or small quarters with minors
Engaging in sexual contact with minors: For the purposes of this policy, sexual contact is defined as vaginal intercourse, anal intercourse, oral intercourse, or the touching of an erogenous zone of another for the purpose of sexually
arousing or gratifying either person. For the purposes of this Policy, an erogenous zone includes but is not limited to,
the thighs, genitals, buttocks, pubic region, or chest.
Possession, distribution, downloading, and/or intentional viewing of real or virtual child pornography
2. Physical Contact
a.
Brothers are prohibited from using physical discipline in any way for behavior management of minors. No form of
physical discipline is acceptable. This prohibition includes spanking, slapping, pinching, hitting, or any other physical
force as retaliation or correction for inappropriate behaviors by minors or for any reason whatsoever.
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