NEBRASKA
Catholic News Agency

By Kevin J. Jones

Lincoln, Neb., Sep 11, 2015 / 07:31 am (CNA).- The Diocese of Lincoln will now take part in the U.S. bishops’ audit of the implementation of the youth protection charter – a move it says adds to a well-functioning system of safeguards against abuse.

“I believe it will demonstrate clearly that the Diocese of Lincoln does an excellent job creating safe environments for children,” Bishop James Conley said in his Sept. 11 column.

Bishop Conley said his diocese already complies with all church laws and civil laws on child abuse reporting and child protection. He said the audit can help bishops hold themselves accountable and provide transparency as “an assurance that the Church takes child protection seriously.”

In 2002, in response to the scandal of sexual abuse by clergy dating back decades, the U.S. bishops adopted the Charter for the Protection…