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10/08/2025 - Bishop of the Diocese of Chalan Kanoa, Rev. Romeo Convocar, issued a decree on Tuesday updating the Child Abuse and Protection Policy for the church.
“This decree marks a significant step in the Diocese’s continued commitment to safeguarding the dignity and well-being of every child, youth, and vulnerable person within our faith community. It formally gives the updated policy the force of law within the Diocese, ensuring that all clergy, employees, and volunteers are guided by the highest standards of accountability, transparency, and pastoral care,” the diocese said in a statement.
The diocese said the updated policy reflects the most current directives of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People and the Essential Norms of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), as well as the civil laws of the CNMI.
They added, “Following the signing of this decree, the implementation process will begin across all diocesan offices, parishes, and schools over the coming months, allowing time for training, dissemination, and full compliance with the revised standards.”
The policy can be read in full at https://rcdck.org/child-protection-policy/. It explains abuse as a sanctionable offense, outlines prevention and reporting, and provides a code of conduct.
“Through this decree, the Diocese reaffirms that safeguarding our children is both a sacred duty and a shared responsibility — one that protects not only the young and vulnerable, but also those who serve them in ministry,” they said.
Report by Thomas Manglona II
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