In Saint Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians he called the members of that local Church and each of us in our own day to “Be on your guard, stand firm in the faith, be courageous, be strong.  Your every act should be done with love.”  (1Cor.16:13-140)

The Code of Pastoral Conduct is a direct response to the mandate given by the bishops of the United States is the charter for the Protection of Children and Young People to publish clear standards of ministerial behavior for clergy and all other Church personnel.  In this document Church personnel and volunteers are reminded of their obligation to be servants of the Church and stewards of God’s mysteries.  The document applies to bishops, priests, deacons, religious, and lay members of the Christian faithful who assist in providing pastoral care.

While the Code does not exhaust what is expected from those who care for others in the name of the church, it is nonetheless a succinct yet thorough statement of expected behavioral standards for all Church personnel and volunteers within our diocese.

Your written acceptance of this document is testimony of your commitment to this effort.