“We are determined to keep improving our response to abuse”
Delegate of Fr Sosa explains how the Survivor Response system works
I make this statement to explain how our Survivor Response system works. It was established in September of this year and covers all situations for the Jesuit communities and works in Rome that are under my leadership – which is a leadership delegated from Fr. Sosa.
When someone contacts us by the dedicated email ([email protected]), the request goes immediately to our response team comprising psychologists, spiritual guides, and legal experts. A designated person of the team then contacts the complainant to take a full testimony. A preliminary investigation is set up if the facts seem to warrant that.
According to the specific case, the team offers the necessary help and support to the complainant and advises about the next needed steps. If a formal procedure is required against a Jesuit, the formal investigation starts according to canonical, civil or criminal law.
For sure, we all still need to journey to find better ways to address these difficult situations and to ensure recognition of the facts, justice and a path to possible healing (acknowledging that this can involve a long and painful journey). We are determined to keep improving our response to any situation of abuse, and to receive all complaints in open and fair manner.
Fr Johan Verschueren, SJ
DIR Delegate
