In the Diocese of Rhode Island, sexual misconduct in any form is unacceptable behavior for any cleric, member, volunteer or employee.

The Diocese reaffirms the principle that employees as well as members have the right to be free from sexual misconduct including sexual harassment.

Any behavior determined to be sexual misconduct will result in appropriate disciplinary action which may include for employees termination of employment, and for clerics deposition.

Allegations of Misconduct

Allegations of misconduct may be reported to the Bishop or to individuals designated by the Bishop as Report Persons

In certain situations defined under Title IV of the Canons of The Episcopal Church, a Charge may be filed directly with the Standing Committee.

Allegations of sexual harassment of employees also may be reported to the Rhode Island Commission on Human Rights and the Federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

Training

The Diocese requires that all church and diocesan employees and volunteers with pastoral or programmatic contact with youth, all paid church employees in a supervisory capacity AND all Eucharistic Visitors must complete the six-hour training on Prevention of Sexual Misconduct and Abuse.

2008 Safe Church Training Dates for Summer and Fall are scheduled! For those who cannot attend a full-day, 6-hour workshop on Saturdays, for your convenience the training has been split for Two Evening workshops. The Saturday sessions remain a full-day workshop.

Here are the scheduled dates, times and places:
Wednesdays, May 7th and 14th: 6:00pm to 9:00pm - St. Peter's-by-the-Sea, Narragansett
Saturday, May 31st: 9:00am to 4:00pm - St. Michael's, Bristol
Saturday, August 16th 9:00am to 4:00pm - Emmanuel, Newport

The cost is $8.00 per person which includes the cost of food/drinks. Pre-Registration a MUST by calling the Diocesan Registration Line at (401) 274-4500 ext. 111.