We are a community committed to preventing abuse. Our policies and programs prioritize safety of children and the vulnerable.
We care about survivors of abuse.
Victim Care Advocate: (913) 298-9244
Vos estis lux mundi (‘You are the light of the world’) is a motu proprio by Pope Francis, promulgated on May 9, 2019 establishes new procedural norms to combat sexual abuse and ensure that bishops and religious superiors are held accountable for their actions.
These universal norms apply to the whole church. As an experiment, the norms entered into force for a period of three years, starting on June 1, 2019. The norms were then expanded and made permanent on April 30, 2023.
If the accused is a bishop or archbishop, call 800-276-1562 or visit ReportBishopAbuse.org.
The Catholic Bishop Abuse Reporting Service has been established to receive reports of sexual abuse and related misconduct by bishops, and to relay those reports to proper Church authorities for investigation. Where a report includes a crime, such as the sexual abuse of a minor, it will also be reported to civil authorities. Otherwise, reports will be kept confidential.
If you have any other kind of complaint about a bishop—such as parish assignments, church closings, or homily contents—please address those directly to the Archdiocese of Kansas City. Sexual abuse by a priest, deacon or a staff member or volunteer of the Church should be reported to the Office for Protection and Care. If you are the victim of sexual abuse (or any other crime), please contact local law enforcement.