Bishop's Norms: Commentary and Evaluation

In November 2002, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops approved the Essential Norms for Diocesan/Eparchial Policies Dealing with Allegations of Sexual Abuse of Minors by Priest or Deacons (“Norms”) in response to allegations of sexual abuse of minors by Roman Catholic Church (“Church”) officials. This Article examines the Norms on the basis of canonical traditions and the concepts, propositions, and positions contained with them. It strives to find the meaning of the individual norms within the broader context of the life and beliefs of the Church and its need to have structures that prevent corruption and promote healthy growth. The author argues that the Norms are not enough to bring local churches back to good health. Genuine healing can only come from the internal resources of the Church’s body through a renewed vision of the Church as a community endowed with gifts which are authenticated and coordinated by the Church hierarchy