
Response from Bishop Felipe Estévez
On Florida’s Investigation of the Catholic Church
The Diocese of St. Augustine has a zero-tolerance policy for sexual abuse. Significant steps have been taken over the last 30 years to prevent such instances from occurring and hold past transgressors accountable while offering justice and healing for victims and their families. As was stated in the Office of Statewide Prosecution’s Report on Sexual Abuse in the Catholic Church in Florida released Nov. 6, 2020, the Diocese of St. Augustine cooperated fully with the statewide investigation, which began Oct. 4, 2018. “I have been given the responsibility of shepherding the people in this diocese, and with God’s help and the full cooperation of the faithful, I will continue to work to restore the bonds of trust that unite us,” said Bishop Estévez.
Glossary of Terms
A resource for journalists in covering church matters
Essential Norms
Regarding sexual abuse of minors by clergy.
Policies & Guidelines
Policies and guidelines of the Diocese of St. Augustine.
Resources
Links to resources for parents, prayers, and additional resources through the USCCB.