We believe the church is a place for truth to be spoken and heard. In our churches, you have the right to:

• Speak the truth about sexual abuse, sexual harassment and sexual exploitation without fear of being further victimized.
• Have your concerns heard and addressed in a safe place through a discreet process.
• Receive pastoral care to help heal the wounds caused by any kind of sexual misconduct within the pastoral relationship.

The Episcopal Church in Western New York first published its Sexual Misconduct Policy & Procedures in 1994. The document describes the manner in which allegations of sexual misconduct against a cleric, lay employee or lay leader in the diocese are handled. It has since undergone several revisions to reflect changes in terminology, New York State law and the Canons of the Episcopal Church in America.

Training Required 

All clergy, diocesan employees and youth workers are required to attend special training sessions aimed at preventing sexual misconduct. These mandated courses are offered through the Bishop Brent School.

Information about upcoming Safe Place classes is available online, from Deacon This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or by calling 716-881-0660, extension 12.