It is the policy of the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend that all diocesan priests, deacons, and other personnel, lay and religious, paid and volunteer, must adhere to the code of conduct when interacting with a Minor. All must report any suspected incident of the physical, mental, or sexual abuse of neglect of a child or young person to appropriate civil and diocesan authorities consistent with the Policy on reporting incidents of child abuse or neglect. All priests, deacons, and other personnel, employee, and volunteer, are subject to and obligated by this policy. For any incidents involving minors, please contact:
Jodi Marlin, Victim Assistance Coordinator
PO Box 390, Fort Wayne, IN 46801
(260) 399-1447
Rev. Mark Gurtner, VIcar General of the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend
PO Box 390, For Wayne, IN 46801
(260) 399-1419
All volunteers who have regular contact with children and young people as part of their volunteer duties will undergo criminal background evaluations before they begin their responsibilities. Contact Lisa Myers (Safe Environment coordinator) in the parish office at (574)-586-7152 or info@saintpatricks.church before completing any forms or signing up for training. You will also need to read the Policy on Electronic Communication and Technology which can be found here: ElectronicCommunicationandTechnologyPolicy-FINAL-1.pdf
The Indiana Department of Child Services Child Abuse Hotline
To report child abuse or neglect of a minor under 18 years of age call 800-800-5556.
The hotline serves as the central reporting center for all allegations of child abuse or neglect in the State of Indiana.
It is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
The Indiana Department of Adult Protective Services Hotline: 800-992-6978
Indiana is a mandatory report state, meaning everyone is required by law to report cases of suspected neglect, battery or exploitation of an endangered adult to an APS unit or law enforcement. All reports are secured and kept confidential.