Rev. Ronald Browne
Phone: 1-800-562-9745, ext. 107 (toll free)
Email: rbrowne@dioceseofmarquette.org

  "I know that bringing forward a sexual misconduct complaint is very frightening and takes courage. It is my goal to make the process as safe and trauma-free as possible for each victim. I will listen; provide guidance, support, and assistance to each person. I am always available to answer any questions or concerns."

If you or someone you know is a victim of

sexual misconduct by a church leader or

worker . . .

We will help you obtain support by providing ...

* Information on the options available.

* Information about professional counseling, including any financial assistance that may be available.

* Names of spiritual directors who can help you repair your relationship with God and the faith community.

* Information regarding active and respected support groups.

We are open to and respect

your complaint ...

Both justice and compassion call us to respond to the harm you or someone you know has experienced from a church worker, whether that person be a member of the clergy, a religious or lay employee or a volunteer. We want to listen and address the hurt that has occurred from the improper exercise of pastoral care.

We recognize that bringing a misconduct complaint to the diocese can be a frightening consideration. We want to make this process as safe as possible.

We will proceed at the pace that you set, respecting your need to determine when, how and where you wish to speak. If the sexual abuse involves someone who is currently a minor, we will assist you in bringing the matter to the civil authorities.

Ministry-related sexual misconduct refers to three forms of misconduct:

* Sexual abuse, which is sexual contact between a church leader and a minor or vulnerable adult.

* Sexual exploitation, which is sexual contact or unwanted sexual conduct between a church leader and a person who has received pastoral care from the church leader.

* Sexual harassment, which is unwelcome sexual conduct or language between anyone involved with a parish, school or institution and an employee, staff member, volunteer or student.

 How to bring a complaint ...

* Call the Victim's Assistance Coordinator and Diocesan Director of Ministry Personnel at 1-800-562-9745, ext. 107 (Toll Free). If the director is unavailable, call the bishop at (906) 227-9115.

or

Write to the Director of Ministry Personnel, Diocese of Marquette, P.O. Box 1000, Marquette, MI 49855. Please mark the letter "Personal and Confidential" and indicate the means of response desired (by phone, by letter or in a meeting).

We will also help you bring your concerns to church officials outside the diocese if the sexual misconduct occured elsewhere and you now reside in the Diocese of Marquette.

If you are unsure about bringing a complaint or would like further information, please contact:

Rev. Ronald Browne
1-800-562-9745, ext. 107 (toll free)
E-mail: rbrowne@dioceseofmarquette.org

. . . we are very sorry and want to help you

find healing for harm done.

View the preceding information as a PDF.