Code of Conduct

1. All adults* in a ministerial role must be trained in safe environment standards and be screened by the diocese. No exceptions.
2. Adults* are never to be alone with children in the rectory, parish residence, school, or in a closed room other than a confessional.
3. The sacristy door remains unlocked when any minors are present within the sacristy.
4. Adults* are prohibited from driving alone (without another adult) with youth.
5. Adults* must never use comments of sexual nature, profanity, cursing and vulgar humor in the presence of any minors.
6. Overnight trips with minors must have more than one adult.
7. Adults are never to stay alone overnight in the same motel/hotel room with a minor during a youth group trip.
8. Pastoral counseling of a minor must only take place in the professional area of a rectory, never in the living quarters.
9. Offices or classroom used for pastoral counseling of a minor must have a window in the door, or the door is to be left open during counseling session and another adult should be in proximity.
10. Adults* are prohibited to serve or supply alcohol, cigarettes, inappropriate reading material, or controlled and illegal substance to minors.

*An adult is any person over the age of 18 who works or volunteers in any parish and institution in the Diocese of Oakland. This includes, but is not limited to: priests, religious (men and women), deacons, pastoral coordinators, school/programs administrators, teachers, catechists, youth ministers, support staff, custodial staff, coaches, school, parish and diocesan volunteers, seminarians serving internships, and lay theology students.