For the safety of children and vlunerable adults and the healing of victims, the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City provides a Pastoral Response Hotline for reporting the abuse of minors and vulnerable adults (past or present) by a member of the clergy or other Archdiocesan Personnel. Calls to the Archdiocesan Pastoral Response Hotline will be answered by the Archdiocesan Victims Assistance Coordinator (VAC). If you are a victim of sexual abuse by a priest, deacon or someone representing the Catholic Church, the VAC will offer to meet with you in person, if you so desire. The VAC will also assist you in making a formal complaint to the Archdiocese, arranging a personal meeting with the Archbishop or his representative, and in obtaining pastoral counseling. Calls are confidential with the following exceptions:
*Any allegation of sexual or physical abuse or neglect involving a minor must be reported immediately to the Oklahoma Department of Human Services Hotline (1-800-522-3511). This is required by Oklahoma state law.
*Any allegation of sexual misconduct involving Archdiocesan Personnel will be shared with the proper Archdiocesan Authorities, as required by Archdiocesan Policies.
* Contact a law enforcement agency (police) who can help determine options for making a criminal complaint.
* Contact a local child protection agency, a private attorney, a support group, an abuse hotline, or a mental health professional.