Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

In a letter dated November 21, Bishop James Conley received notification from StoneBridge Business Partners, an independent auditor, confirming that the Diocese of Lincoln was "found compliant with all audited Articles within the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People for the audit period of July 1, 2021 through September 30, 2024."

This compliance is attributed to the diocese's policies and procedures aimed at ensuring safety in parishes, schools, and other institutions. StoneBridge Business Partners conducts annual electronic audits and performs intensive in-person audits every third year to verify adherence to the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People. The USCCB selected StoneBridge for these compliance audits.

"They review information that shows we have given everyone interacting with youth a background check and safe environment training," explained Jeff Hohlen, safe environment director and victims assistance coordinator for the Diocese of Lincoln. "Each of our parishes and schools play an important role in following the USCCB guidelines."

The diocese requires annual safe environment certification from clergy, religious members, teachers, support staff, and others who may have one-on-one contact with children. This involves watching a training video and answering questions to ensure understanding of acceptable interactions with youth.

Every adult in the diocese is encouraged to protect children by reporting any suspicious behavior. "I need everyone’s eyes watching and protecting our youth," Hohlen emphasized. Reports can be made without needing undeniable proof if there is discomfort about any situation.

"Anything that causes you to be uncomfortable should be reported to myself or school or parish administrations," he stated. For incidents involving child abuse or neglect, reports should be directed to DHHS child abuse hotline or local law enforcement.

The effectiveness of this protection system relies on vigilance from all adults in the diocese regarding concerns about youth or diocesan personnel misconduct.

Suspicious activities related to child abuse or neglect can be reported by calling the Nebraska Adult & Child Abuse & Neglect Hotline at 1-800-652-1999. Concerns can also be reported directly to Jeff Hohlen at 402-314-2899 or via email at [protected email]. Victim assistance inquiries can be sent via email as well.

The diocese’s safe environment policies are accessible online at www.lincolndiocese.org/safe-environment/policies.