The Diocese of Raleigh is reaffirming its commitment to the safety and protection of children and young people following the release of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) 2025 Annual Report on the Implementation of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People (PDF).
Published May 27, the report reflects nationwide data collected from dioceses across the country and outlines ongoing efforts to prevent abuse, support victim-survivors, and ensure accountability. The Charter, first established in 2002, continues to serve as a comprehensive framework guiding the Church’s response to allegations of abuse and its mission to create safe environments.
Locally, the Diocese of Raleigh continues to play an active role in this national effort. “The national audit created by our bishops creates a shared framework for a diverse set of communities,” said Dr. John A. Pendergrass, Director, Program for the Protection of Children and Young People. “Our local safe environment leaders help communicate these national standards to each parish and school across the Diocese of Raleigh.”
Since the audit’s inception in 2003, the Diocese of Raleigh has consistently participated in the USCCB’s annual compliance review. This collaboration ensures that national standards are implemented effectively at the local level. Parish and school leaders throughout the diocese are instrumental in maintaining these efforts, helping to foster environments where children and youth are protected and respected.
In the past year alone, more than 5,000 clergy, employees, and volunteers across the Diocese of Raleigh have completed required safe environment training and criminal background screenings as part of their preparation for ministry involving minors. These measures reflect the Church’s broader commitment to vigilance and prevention.
Bishop Luis Zarama emphasized the importance of both accountability and healing in this ongoing work. “We must show God's love and mercy while continuing to seek forgiveness for the Church’s failings and healing for those who were hurt by them,” he said. “We must also continue to make every possible effort to prevent future transgressions.”
Nationally, the report indicates that more than 2.3 million background checks were conducted in 2025, alongside training for over 2.3 million adults and 2.8 million children and youth in recognizing and reporting abuse. The findings also show continued outreach to victim-survivors, with support provided to both newly reporting individuals and those who came forward in previous years.
The USCCB notes that the annual audit and the Church’s zero-tolerance policies remain essential tools in building a culture of protection and healing that goes beyond the requirements of the Charter.
As the Diocese of Raleigh continues its participation in this national effort, local leaders remain committed to ensuring that every parish, school, and ministry reflects the highest standards of safety, accountability, and care for the most vulnerable.
The full report and additional resources are available through the USCCB’s Secretariat of Child and Youth Protection.