My Dear People,

I am pleased to present to you the revised Sexual Misconduct Policy for the Diocese of Santa Rosa.  This policy is designed to insure that all persons are treated with the respect due them as sons and daughters of God. This policy is founded on the dignity of each person and provides that gospel values permeate all activities inour Church.

Sexual misconduct is contrary to the fundamental dignity of each person, to the values of the gospel of Jesus Christ and to the dogmatic and moral teachings of the Church.  Sexual misconduct cannot and will not be tolerated in our Church. The Diocese of Santa Rosa is committed to addressing all reported allegations of sexual misconduct with due regard for the rights of all.  The Diocese of Santa Rosa will abide by all civil laws that are involved in this area.

I am grateful to the members of the Diocesan Review Board of the Diocese for their work and dedication in this matter. I ask all to study this policy so that its provisions will be known and acted upon when necessary.

Assuring you of my prayers, I am
Your Brother and Servant in the Lord,

Most Reverend Daniel F. Walsh
Bishop of Santa Rosa