Protection of Minors in the Church

Although in the Diocese of Tallinn no cases of sexual abuse have so far been identified or recorded, in accordance with the guidelines of the Holy See we have prepared these guidelines in order to prevent and – if necessary – respond to this gravely reprehensible crime. The document is intended for the priests of the Catholic Church in Estonia, for all Catholics, and also more generally for the authorities. We wish this to be a sign of our commitment to preventing such acts and a clear testimony that the Catholic Church in Estonia fully fulfills its obligations arising both from the laws of the Republic of Estonia and from the canonical law of the Church. We thank God for the fidelity of our priests and commit ourselves to doing everything in our power so that no case of abuse may occur in the Diocese of Tallinn.

These guidelines begin with a section that presents the Church’s fundamental theological understanding of the human person and his or her sexuality. It then addresses how we define the terms “child” and “sexual abuse,” what the possible signs of abuse are, and how to recognize potential perpetrators. The next section identifies the person who, in the Diocese of Tallinn, deals with these matters. The subsequent sections address how to respond to a suspicion or allegation of abuse, what support should be offered to victims, and how other involved persons are to be informed. It then sets out guidelines regarding the suspect or the accused, as well as the measures to be applied during and after the investigation and judicial proceedings. Finally, it addresses pastoral care in such situations and sets out important preventive measures both to avoid sexual abuse and to prevent unfounded accusations.

a. God created the human person out of love and for love. This theological truth helps us to understand more deeply both God and the human being. However, sin has wounded and damaged what God created. God sent His Son into the world to reconcile creation to Himself, to reveal the fullness of His love, and to restore human dignity. God offers His grace and forgiveness to all who accept it, yet we know that the struggle against sin lasts a lifetime.

b. Enlightened by Jesus’ words, “Let the children come to me,” the Church has always reflected on the role and importance of children. She has also highlighted and defended the unique dignity of every child. Therefore, the Church regards the sexual abuse of children as one of the most abhorrent crimes against humanity—and thus also against God Himself.

c. The term “abuse” encompasses a range of acts, from purely physical violence to psychological torment. It often refers to a situation in which an adult seeks to achieve immoral aims by exploiting a child’s innocence and trust. Abuse is also present when authority is used in a contemptuous and disrespectful manner that harms the child because of his or her vulnerability and dependence. Sexual assault occurs when an adult uses a child for the satisfaction of sexual desire. No form of abuse—regardless of its moral gravity—can ever be tolerated; all must be condemned as grave crimes against both the child and the Creator.

d. When the Church reflects on the dignity and vocation of the child, She proceeds from the fundamental theological truth that the human person is created in the image of God (Gen 1:27). This likeness means that every human being is a person—a unique being with inviolable dignity. The free will given by God enables the human person to live according to the good, in harmony with the moral order. In relations with others, each person must be treated as a subject, not as an object. Using another person to achieve one’s own ends violates that person’s dignity; the root of abuse lies precisely in failing to recognize the other as a person.

e. The human person possesses inviolable dignity throughout life—from conception to natural death. Unfortunately, this dignity is not always respected. A child’s dependence on adults, as well as his or her weakness and developing independence, make the child vulnerable. A child has the right to grow up in an environment where he or she experiences security and trust in life and in others. Responsibility for this lies first and foremost with parents and other adults around the child. Yet we know that many children have been harmed by adults. Therefore, the Church and society must work together to protect and safeguard the human dignity of children.

f. Our faith in the Incarnation of God in Jesus Christ affirms the inviolability of human dignity. By becoming man, God showed us what human life is meant to be. In the Gospel, Jesus always defends the vulnerable. Therefore, children have a special place in the Kingdom of God: “Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for the Kingdom of God belongs to such as these” (Mk 10:14). On another occasion, Jesus places a child among them and says: “Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me; and whoever receives me receives not me but the one who sent me” (Mk 9:37). To receive a child is to receive God. This attitude must also be reflected in our behavior toward children. Jesus gives a strong and concrete warning about the opposite attitude with these words: “But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin—it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea” (Mt 18:6); “See that you do not despise one of these little ones” (Mt 18:10).

g. God created the human person male and female. Man and woman are called to imitate God in love and communion. Through sexuality—which is a gift from God—man and woman express and affirm their mutual love. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states: “The union of man and woman in marriage is a way of imitating in the flesh the Creator’s generosity and fruitfulness” (CCC, no. 2335). Thus, according to the teaching of the Church, sexuality is a gift to be lived only within the lifelong covenant of marriage. In marriage, true love and mutual respect, fidelity, unity of life, fruitfulness, joy, and pleasure are cultivated. All this is possible only when spouses recognize and treat each other as persons. Harming or exploiting one another is contrary to the union of self-giving to which marriage is called.

h. Like many other gifts of God, sexuality can also be misused, causing great harm. When a child, who is not yet mature for adult sexuality, becomes a victim of an adult’s exploitation, it is abuse and a grave act of violence that often results in lifelong and irreparable wounds. Such abuse is a crime against the child as a person and a grave violation of God’s law. If the perpetrator is a priest—or another Church worker or volunteer—the harm is even greater, given the great trust placed in clergy and Church officials.

Church leaders must always act to protect children from abuse. If, however—despite all efforts—abuse does occur, the Church leader must immediately take action against the accused: ensure that a report is made to the police and fully cooperate with civil authorities during the investigation and legal proceedings. It is also essential that Church leaders strictly apply the penal norms of canon law. The Church must in no way act in a manner that could give the impression of concealing or minimizing what has happened. The well-being of the child and his or her family must be the primary concern. These norms express the responsibility of the Diocese of Tallinn in preventing abuse and, when necessary, responding swiftly and decisively.

i. Finally, we must not forget that God’s mercy extends to all people—even those who have committed grave crimes. The sacrifice of the Cross of Jesus Christ is powerful enough to forgive even the most serious sins. However, forgiveness requires sincere repentance, a willingness to convert, and to make restitution. Those who have committed sexual abuse must publicly acknowledge their guilt and take responsibility for their actions both before civil courts and before the Church. They must also personally make reparation for the harm caused, accepting civil and ecclesiastical penalties, and doing so through prayer and penance.

“child” and “sexual abuse”**

For the Catholic Church, the sexual abuse of minors committed by clergy is one of the gravest moral offenses, which is why such cases are reserved to the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith (see _Motu Proprio_ _Sacramentorum sanctitatis tutela_ [[SST]], art. 6, §1).

In these guidelines, the term “child” is used in accordance with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and the _Motu Proprio_ SST. A child is any person under 18 years of age. If a person’s age is unknown but there is reason to believe they may be under 18, they must be treated as a child until proven otherwise (see Estonian Child Protection Act, § 3 subsection 2).

The term “sexual abuse of a minor” is understood here on the basis of Article 6 of the _Motu Proprio_ SST: “an offense against the sixth commandment committed by a cleric with a minor when the child is under eighteen years of age.” It should also be noted that according to the same article, “a person who habitually lacks the use of reason is to be considered equivalent to a minor.” This definition also includes vulnerable persons – that is, all individuals whose illness, physical or mental disability, or deprivation of personal liberty – even temporarily – limits their ability to understand the situation, to will freely, or to resist abuse. A cleric who commits the aforementioned offense is punished by the Church according to the gravity of the act, up to dismissal from the clerical state if necessary.

According to § 3(1) and § 6(1) of the Child Protection Act, every person who comes into contact with children has the obligation to ensure the rights and well-being of the child and to support their comprehensive development – including sexual development and health. A child who is in a situation that endangers their health or well-being must receive necessary assistance immediately and in an appropriate manner.

Section 24 of the Child Protection Act prohibits the abuse of children. According to subsection 1 of this section, neglect of a child as well as mental, emotional, physical, or sexual abuse is prohibited – including humiliating, frightening, or physically punishing a child, as well as punishing a child in any other way that endangers their mental, emotional, or physical health.

In addition to the above, the Penal Code criminalizes various forms of sexual abuse directed against minors. The following sections from Chapter 9, Division 7 of the Penal Code address the relevant offenses:

141\. Rape 1. Engaging in sexual intercourse with another person against their will, using violence or taking advantage of a situation where the person is unable to defend themselves or understand what is happening, is punishable by one to six years of imprisonment. 2. The same act is punishable by six to fifteen years of imprisonment if: 1. it is committed against a person under 18 years of age; 2. it is committed by multiple persons; 3. it causes serious harm to the victim’s health; 4. it causes the victim’s death; 5. it leads the victim to suicide or a suicide attempt; 6. the perpetrator has previously been convicted of an offense provided for in this division. 141¹. Sexual act without consent

Involving a person against their will in a sexual activity, other than intercourse, using violence or taking advantage of a situation where the person cannot understand what is happening or resist, is punishable by up to five years of imprisonment.

143\. Forcing a person to engage in sexual intercourse 1. Engaging in sexual intercourse with a person against their will by exploiting their dependence on the perpetrator or by abusing influence or trust (without using violence or when the situation does not fall under § 141) is punishable by two to eight years of imprisonment. 2. The same act is punishable by three to eight years of imprisonment if it is committed by a person who has previously been convicted of an offense provided for in this division. 144\. Sexual intercourse with a descendant 1. Sexual intercourse or another sexual act by a parent, guardian, or grandparent with their child or grandchild is punishable by two to eight years of imprisonment. 2. The same act is punishable by three to eight years of imprisonment if it is committed by a person previously convicted of an offense provided for in this division. 145\. Sexual intercourse or other sexual act with a child 1. Sexual intercourse or another sexual act by an adult with a person under 14 years of age is punishable by up to five years of imprisonment. 2. The same act is punishable by two to eight years of imprisonment if it is committed by a person who has previously been convicted of an offense provided for in this division. 3. If the act is committed by a legal entity, it shall be punished with a monetary penalty. 145¹. Purchasing sex from a minor 1. Sexual intercourse or another sexual act with a person under 18 years of age in exchange for payment or any other benefit is punishable by up to three years of imprisonment. 2. The same act against a person under 14 years of age is punishable by up to five years of imprisonment. 3. If the act is committed by a person who has previously been convicted of an offense provided for in this division, the punishment is two to eight years of imprisonment. 4. If the act is committed by a legal entity, it shall be punished with a monetary penalty. 147\. Lack of capacity of a person under 10 years of age to understand

In the context of the offenses provided for in this division, a person under 10 years of age is considered incapable of understanding the situation.

153¹. Sexual harassment

A physical act of a sexual nature against a person’s will, the purpose or consequence of which is to humiliate the person, is punishable by a fine of up to 300 daily units or detention.

, possession or distribution by a cleric**

“Child pornography” means any depiction of a minor, regardless of the form of representation, in which the minor is engaged in explicit sexual activities—whether real or simulated—as well as any depiction of the sexual organs of a minor for primarily sexual purposes. Handling, acquiring, or distributing child pornography is a punishable offense under Chapter 11, Division 2 of the Penal Code (see Child Protection Act § 25 and Penal Code § 175) and is also considered among the gravest offenses under Church law. The Motu Proprio Sacramentorum sanctitatis tutela (art. 6, § 1, 2°) provides: “The acquisition, possession, or distribution by a cleric of pornographic images of minors (under eighteen years of age) for purposes of sexual gratification, by whatever means or using whatever technology,” is considered among the more serious moral offenses reserved to the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith.

In addition, it must be emphasized that if a priest—or any other person working in the Church—is suspected of a crime related to child pornography, the police must be notified immediately.

The relevant provisions of the Penal Code are as follows:

178\. Production or making available of works with child pornographic content

(1) The production, acquisition, storage, transfer, display, or otherwise making available to another person of pictures, written works, or other works or their reproductions depicting a person under eighteen years of age in a pornographic situation, or a person under fourteen years of age in a pornographic or erotic situation, is punishable by a fine or up to three years’ imprisonment.

(§1) The same act is punishable by one to three years’ imprisonment if committed by a person who has previously committed an offense provided for in this section or in §§ 175, 175¹, 178¹, or 179.

(2) If the offender is a legal person, it is punishable by a fine.

178¹. Agreement to meet a child for sexual purposes

(1) Making a proposal to meet a person under eighteen years of age who is unable to comprehend the situation, or a person under fourteen years of age, or concluding an agreement with them to meet, and carrying out an act preparatory to the meeting, if the purpose of the meeting is to commit a sexual offense provided for in §§ 133, 133¹, 141–145¹, 175, 175¹, 178, or 179 of this Code against that person, is punishable by a fine or up to three years’ imprisonment.

(§1) The same act, if committed by a person who has previously committed an offense provided for in this or the aforementioned sections, is punishable by one to three years’ imprisonment.

(3) If an offense punishable under this section is committed by a person who has previously been punished accordingly, the sentence imposed may not be fully suspended.

179\. Sexual grooming of children

(1) A person who hands over, shows, or otherwise knowingly makes available to a child under fourteen years of age pornographic works or their reproductions, shows them sexual abuse, engages in sexual intercourse in their presence, or knowingly entices them sexually in another way, is punishable by a fine or up to three years’ imprisonment.

(§1) The same act, if committed by a person who has previously committed an offense provided for in this or §§ 175, 175¹, 178, or 178¹, is punishable by one to three years’ imprisonment.

(2) If the offender is a legal person, it is punishable by a fine.

In addition, we wish to emphasize that certain acts which are not crimes under civil law may nevertheless constitute sexual abuse under the Church’s own law—canon law—and may therefore give grounds for ecclesiastical investigation and punishment.

Only a few children disclose themselves that they have been victims of sexual abuse. They often feel shame, anxiety, and fear, and may even believe that what happened was their own fault. Often there are no visible physical signs. According to specialists in child and adolescent psychiatry, there is no clearly defined “sexual abuse syndrome” – that is, a set of symptoms that would occur only in abused children and never in those who have not been abused. The way individual children’s behavior and conditions manifest can be influenced by many factors, including age, gender, personality, and the nature and duration of the abuse. These signs may also overlap with symptoms of mental health disorders that have other causes.

Nevertheless, two patterns of behavior should always raise suspicion if no other clear explanation can be found:

Sexualized behavior (i.e., sexual behavior that is not appropriate to the child’s developmental level, is persistent, difficult to redirect, and intrusively focused on sexuality); Post-traumatic stress symptoms (i.e., a chronic state of stress resulting from severe trauma that the child has not been able to process or integrate into their experience).

Examples of sexualized behavior may include the following:

Provocative sexual behavior that is not appropriate to the child’s developmental level; Excessive or obsessive interest in sexuality; Compulsive masturbation.

Possible social or emotional signs (which may also occur in other forms of abuse):

Difficulties in forming or maintaining relationships with peers and/or adults; Appears emotionally detached from parents or other children; Withdrawn and quiet behavior; the child may seem particularly alert and tense in the presence of adults; Excessive need for affection or physical closeness; Intense fear of being touched; Learning and behavioral difficulties.

It is important to emphasize that no single behavior or symptom is, in itself, definitive proof of sexual abuse. Therefore, these signs should never be taken as conclusive evidence that abuse has occurred without further investigation by qualified specialists. At the same time, it is very important to remain attentive to signs that may indicate a child is trying to express distress or trauma.

A common but mistaken assumption is that individuals who commit child sexual abuse behave strangely or immediately arouse suspicion and are therefore easy to recognize. On the contrary, experience shows that perpetrators often leave a very “ordinary” and trustworthy impression. There is no simple profile of an abuser or a fixed pattern that would reliably allow someone to be identified. However, certain characteristics have been observed among individuals who may sexually abuse minors if given the opportunity – although the presence of these traits does not in itself imply guilt or danger:

They may come from any social class, profession, or economic background; They often deliberately seek roles or activities (e.g., work or volunteering) that bring them into regular contact with children; They are usually perceived as “nice,” friendly, and helpful people; They often “specialize” in a specific age group of children and may prefer either only boys or only girls; They are often familiar with youth culture (e.g., music, fashion, interests), which allows them to build trust with children more easily; They are able to identify vulnerable, isolated children who may be particularly receptive to adult attention and emotional closeness; They often try to “charm” the child by offering things the child would not otherwise receive – for example alcohol, cigarettes, clothes, a mobile phone, or even something as simple as a bag of potato chips; They seek contact with children who have behavioral or learning difficulties, mental health problems, or who are not sufficiently supervised by parents or teachers – often because they are considered “difficult” or “problematic.”

At the same time, it is important to avoid unfounded suspicions or labeling individuals based solely on character traits, appearance, or lifestyle. The presence of one or more of the above-mentioned characteristics does not in itself justify an accusation or the presumption of guilt.

The primary responsibility for handling cases of sexual abuse of minors rests with the diocesan bishop. If an allegation appears credible, the diocese initiates a preliminary investigation. The bishop has delegated to the vicar the authority to receive allegations of alleged sexual abuse of minors and to conduct the preliminary investigation.

The Vicar General acts promptly if he considers the allegation or suspicion of abuse to be reasonably substantiated. If necessary, he may consult experts in the relevant fields – for example psychologists, canon or civil law jurists, or the diocesan communications specialist.

All investigations must be carried out in full compliance with the principle of confidentiality and with respect for the good name and dignity of all parties.

The Bishop of the Diocese of Tallinn is committed to transparency, accountability, and cooperation with state authorities in the investigation and handling of such crimes. In light of this commitment, we emphasize that all reasonably grounded suspicions that a cleric or employee of the diocese has committed sexual abuse must, in accordance with the laws of the Republic of Estonia, be reported to the police and social welfare authorities.

At the same time, everyone – except a priest who has received information under the seal of confession – who knows or reasonably suspects that such a crime has been committed must immediately report it to the bishop or vicar. Alongside the proper investigation of the accusation, the diocese must above all ensure the pastoral care of the alleged victim.

If anyone – except a priest bound by the seal of confession – becomes aware that someone has a suspicion or accusation of sexual abuse, but that person is not ready or able to approach the bishop or vicar themselves, the informed person has a moral obligation to pass on this information. This intention must be clearly expressed to the person carrying the suspicion or accusation. In such a case, no promise of confidentiality may be given.

Within the diocese, the ultimate responsibility for reporting to the police and social welfare authorities lies with the bishop. Anyone who has knowledge or suspicion of abuse may also approach the bishop or vicar directly, who will assess whether a police report is appropriate. At the same time, everyone has the right to contact the police independently. If someone has a valid reason to believe that the bishop or vicar has failed to act properly or has attempted to conceal what happened, they have the right – and are encouraged – to report directly to the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith or to civil authorities without fear of retaliation. The protection of children is always paramount.

Those who make reports must be treated with respect, dignity, and pastoral care. If sexual abuse is connected with another grave offense against the dignity of the Sacrament of Penance (see SST art. 4), the person making the report has the right to request that their identity not be disclosed to the accused cleric (see SST art. 24).

Unless there are compelling reasons to the contrary – such as the case mentioned above – the accused cleric must, even during the preliminary investigation, be informed of the accusation made against him and be given the opportunity to admit, deny, or explain the facts presented. He must be informed of his right to obtain civil and canonical legal assistance. The diocese also ensures pastoral accompaniment for the cleric and encourages him to choose a personal support person.

The accused cleric is presumed innocent until his guilt is proven. The diocese will not disclose the accusation unless the cleric has admitted his act, has been formally charged, or his guilt has been established by civil or ecclesiastical authorities.

It is important to note that if a priest learns of sexual abuse through the Sacrament of Penance, he is bound by the absolute secrecy of the confessional seal. At the same time, the priest must strongly encourage the penitent to report the incident outside the context of the Sacrament of Penance. Although the Estonian Penal Code (§ 4, §§ 306–307) establishes an obligation to report first-degree crimes and the Child Protection Act (§§ 26–27) establishes an obligation to report a child in need of assistance, these laws do not override the protection of the confessional seal, which is regarded as absolute by the Catholic Church.

The diocese, in cooperation with social services, provides support and assistance to children who have been victims of sexual abuse. Recovery from such trauma can be a long and complex process. The diocese contributes – including financially when necessary – to ensure the victim has access to professional help and therapeutic care.

Assistance also includes individuals directly affected by the abuse, such as the victim’s family members. In addition, the diocese provides information and, if necessary, offers pastoral support to those who have been indirectly affected – for example, members of the congregation or individuals belonging to a youth group.

The safety of children must take precedence over all other considerations. If an accusation is made against a cleric, employee, or volunteer of the Diocese of Tallinn, and the incident has been reported to the police and the relevant social services, the bishop must take all necessary measures to ensure that there is no risk of abuse during the investigation. These measures may include temporary suspension from office, removal from clerical ministry or other duties, or other preventive steps to protect children. If the accusation concerns the bishop himself, he should step down from office for the duration of the investigation.

The investigation procedures are as follows:

a. If someone claims that they have been abused by a cleric or employee of the diocese, the vicar general invites the person to a meeting at a time and place of their choosing to discuss the allegation.

b. During the meeting, the person must be treated with dignity and respect. They must be received respectfully, listened to, supported, and offered spiritual and medical assistance. Their personal data, good name, and privacy must be safeguarded. If the alleged victim is female, a female representative of the diocese must also be present.

c. Without violating the seal of confession, pastoral workers, assistants, and volunteers who become aware of possible exploitation, sexual abuse, or mistreatment of a minor must immediately report this information directly to the bishop or through the vicar general.

d. The vicar general asks the person to submit a written statement formalizing the allegation or suspicion of abuse.

e. If the accused is a cleric under another diocese or belonging to an institute of consecrated life or a society of apostolic life, the vicar general immediately forwards the report to the competent ordinary or superior.

f. If the report is not manifestly unfounded, the vicar general relieves the accused of clerical ministry or pastoral duties and initiates an immediate and thorough investigation.

g. During the investigation, the nature of the alleged act, the identity and age of the victim, the extent of the harm caused, and any possible connection with the sacramental context are assessed. Relevant documents, testimonies, and evidence are collected from places where the accused has served.

h. After the investigation is completed, the vicar general submits a report to the bishop assessing the credibility of both the complainant and the accused, and makes proposals for further action.

i. If the accused is a cleric, a canonical preliminary investigation must be initiated within 30 days of receiving the report, unless there are compelling reasons for delay. Any delay must be documented in the case file.

j. After the preliminary investigation is completed, the bishop must forward the case to the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith. If the Dicastery does not decide to handle the case itself, it provides the bishop with instructions for further action (see SST, art. 16). These instructions concern only the canonical procedure and possible ecclesiastical penalties and do not affect civil proceedings. Possible penalties include dismissal from the clerical state, meaning that the priest may no longer serve in the Church (see SST, art. 6, §2).

The victim has the right to participate in the canonical process as an injured party and to submit a claim for personal damages within the same proceedings (see CIC, can. 1729).

Even if the offense is time-barred under civil law (see Penal Code § 81), a canonical investigation must still be conducted. Under canon law, a 20-year statute of limitations applies to the sexual abuse of a minor, calculated from the moment the victim reaches 18 years of age. In individual cases, the Church may exceptionally waive this time limit.

A person appointed by the vicar general must maintain regular contact with the accused, provide pastoral support, and keep them informed about the progress of the investigation.

A legal investigation may end with different outcomes, each of which has an important impact on how the Diocese responds to a person accused of a sexual offense against minors. Four main scenarios are distinguished:

1°) The court terminates the criminal case and the Diocese is convinced that the accused has not committed sexual abuse. In this case, the Diocese must take all necessary steps to restore the good name of the wrongly accused cleric. If necessary, the Diocese may also consider referring the name of the person who made the false accusation to law enforcement authorities.

2°) The court finds the accused guilty of a sexual offense. Upon the pronouncement of the court’s final decision, the Diocese acts in accordance with the measures described below.

3°) The court terminates the criminal case, but the Diocese finds that reasonable doubt remains as to whether the person should continue in clerical ministry.

4°) The police terminate the investigation without the case reaching court.

In scenarios 2°, 3°, and 4°, the Vicar General, in cooperation with civil authorities, conducts a risk assessment to determine whether and under what conditions the person concerned may continue serving in the Diocese. The conclusions of this assessment are presented to the bishop as a formal recommendation.

At the same time, the return of a convicted cleric to public ministry is clearly excluded if such ministry would pose a risk to minors or cause scandal among the faithful.

If a cleric has been found guilty of sexual abuse, the Diocese strongly recommends that he undergo a diagnostic evaluation and share its results with the bishop. As a rule, he is expected to participate in a treatment and supervision program that includes personal development and taking responsibility. All decisions of the bishop regarding the cleric’s further ministry are guided by the principle of protecting others from potential harm.

The Diocese undertakes to ensure appropriate pastoral support for the convicted cleric, recognizing his dignity while placing the protection and well-being of others first.

As noted earlier, the Diocese, in cooperation with social institutions, provides support and assistance to abused persons and their families. If the victim or their family members require specific pastoral care, the Diocese ensures immediate assistance. This support may include both spiritual accompaniment by priests or trained laypersons as well as professional therapeutic help from qualified mental health specialists.

The Diocese clearly distinguishes between these roles and ensures that victims and their families are aware of the available forms of assistance.

In special cases, the community where the abuse took place may also require particular pastoral attention. The Diocese gives special care to the pastoral needs of the parish or community in which the accused carried out their ministry. If the Diocese or the relevant canonical or civil authority finds that the accusation is justified, the Diocese issues a pastoral call to other potential victims, encouraging them to come forward and seek support.

A person appointed by the Bishop maintains ongoing contact with the person who made the allegation, ensuring that they are kept informed throughout the investigative process and that continuous support is provided.

All groups, parishes, organizations, and other entities operating under the Diocese and working with children and young people must be aware of the guidelines set out in this document, implement them, and fully comply with them.

All training programs intended for those working with children and young people must include topics on the prevention of sexual abuse and on responding to cases or allegations of abuse.

The risk of abuse and false accusations can be reduced through several practical measures, including the following:

Whenever possible, an adult should not be alone with a child or young person in a situation where others cannot see them. This protects both the adult and the minor. Every effort must be made to ensure that two adults are present in activities involving children or young people, especially if the activity takes place outside parish premises or at times when no other events are occurring in the building. Those working with minors should not arrange private or individual meetings with a child or young person outside official group activities. Youth activities should take place in well-lit, open, and accessible spaces. Adult supervisors must monitor minors until they leave the church or parish building. When transportation is involved, it should be ensured that there is more than one passenger in a vehicle. For group outings, a common pick-up and drop-off point for children and young people must be designated. Particular care must be taken when arranging accommodation for children and young people—whether for a retreat, pilgrimage, or other event. A child or young person must never be accommodated alone with an adult. In the case of home accommodation, it must be ensured that at least two minors stay in the room. Appropriate caution must be exercised in all forms of communication with minors—by phone, email, or social media. Parents or guardians must be informed in advance about planned activities involving minors, as well as their practical arrangements. Minors must not be photographed or filmed without prior written consent from a parent or guardian. Likewise, recognizable images of a minor must not be published or shared—including on websites or social media—without such consent. All written consents must be securely stored in the Diocese archive or in the records of the responsible parish or organization. Access to this information must be restricted and comply with data protection laws.

These preventive measures are intended both to protect minors and to protect adults from false allegations. They apply to everyone—priests, staff, volunteers, and others—without exception. It is easy to fall into a false sense of security and believe that abuse or false accusations cannot happen in our Church. However, realistic awareness and responsible planning are essential to reduce risks. It would be naive to think that such cases are not possible in our ecclesial context.

1. If anyone has reasonable grounds to suspect that a cleric or employee of the Diocese of Tallinn has committed sexual abuse, the police, social services, and the Vicar General must be notified as soon as possible. 2. The Vicar General meets with the person who claims to be a victim of a cleric or employee of the Diocese of Tallinn at a time and place chosen by that person to discuss the allegation. 3. The Vicar General ensures that a written statement is prepared regarding the allegation or suspicion. 4. The Vicar General informs the Bishop of the allegation and the measures being taken, unless the allegation concerns the Bishop himself. 5. The Vicar General conducts a diligent preliminary investigation of the allegation. 6. The Diocese of Tallinn securely preserves all documents related to the allegation and the proceedings so that they can be used in the future, including in canonical or civil procedures. 7. The Vicar General ensures that there is no ongoing risk to minors during the investigation by applying, if necessary, temporary removal from office, suspension from duties, or other precautionary measures. 8. The accused person is informed of the allegation and is given the opportunity to admit, deny, or explain the circumstances presented against them. 9. The accused is informed of their right to make use of both civil and canon law counsel. 10. A person appointed by the Vicar General maintains regular contact with the accused, offering pastoral support and sharing information about the progress of the investigation. 11. The Diocese ensures spiritual care for the accused and encourages them to designate a personal support person. 12. The victim is informed of their right to participate in the canonical process as an injured party and to bring a civil claim for personal damages within the same proceedings (see CIC, can. 1729). 13. The Diocese offers the victim both spiritual and professional support—both now and in the future. A person appointed by the Vicar General maintains ongoing contact with the victim and shares information about the progress of the investigation. 14. All data concerning the allegation, the investigation, and its results are treated with strict confidentiality, in accordance with canon law and civil data protection laws. 15. Upon completion of the preliminary investigation, the Vicar General submits a written report to the Bishop, assessing the credibility of the accuser and the accused and making recommendations for further action. 16. If the accused is a cleric, a canonical preliminary investigation must be initiated within 30 days of receiving the report, unless serious reasons justify a delay. Any delay must be documented in writing. 17. If the allegation appears credible, the Bishop forwards the case to the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith. 18. The Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith guides the Bishop in conducting the canonical procedure. 19. The Diocese does not make the allegation public unless the accused admits guilt or civil or canonical proceedings are initiated or a guilty verdict is rendered. 20. In such a case, the Diocese provides pastoral care to the parish or community where the accused served. 21. If civil or canonical authority establishes guilt, the Diocese issues a pastoral appeal to other potential victims, encouraging them to come forward. 22. If civil authorities dismiss the allegation and the Diocese believes the accused to be innocent, measures are taken to restore their good name. 23. If a civil investigation is closed without charges being brought, but the Diocese finds that suspicions remain, the Vicar General conducts a risk assessment and submits a recommendation to the Bishop regarding the accused’s further ministry.