Suspected Abuse, Neglect, or Exploitation of Children and Youth
Any adult who has reason to suspect that abuse, neglect, or exploitation of children or youth has taken place is strongly encouraged to, and all mandated reporters are required to, contact the state’s Child Protective Services. Your immediate ministry supervisor and clergy person or intake officer (in absence of clergy) must also be notified.
Suspected Abuse or Misconduct by a Member of the Clergy
Anyone who suspects abuse or misconduct by a member of the clergy shall immediately report the violation to the bishop’s office and/or the Intake Officer. Anyone can make a report to an Intake Officer.
Suspected Abuse or Misconduct by an Adult Lay Person
Anyone who suspects abuse or misconduct by an adult shall immediately report the violation to the clergy person in charge, or in the absence of clergy, an Intake Officer.
Local Resources for Response
Diocesan Intake Officers
The Rev. Annie Elliott: (601) 853-1606 intake@dioms.org
The Rev. Bill Blanton (contact information pending)
Clergy, or in the absence of clergy, Wardens in charge of a congregation;
Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-222-8000