IN THE NAME OF GOD.

Whereas on 30 May 2003, in virtue of the authority entrusted to me as Apostolic Administrator of the Archdiocese of Boston, I decreed as particular law for the Archdiocese of Boston the Policies and Procedures for the Protection of Children, to become effective on July 1, 2003; Whereas certain revisions to the text have been completed and approved; I hereby decree as particular law for the Archdiocese of Boston the revised Policies and Procedures for the Protection of Children. These Policies and Procedures replace all previous policies and guidelines concerning the matters that are therein addressed; I decree, further, that by 1 October 2003 a section be added to the Policies and Procedures titled the "Code of Ministerial Behavior."

The Policies and Procedures for the Protection of Children apply to all clergy, archdiocesan personnel, and volunteers who minister, work, or serve in the Archdiocese of Boston, including its parishes, schools, and other institutions. A future protocol will specify the manner in which these Policies and Procedures apply to members of institutes of consecrated life, societies of apostolic life, personal prelatures, and public associations of the faithful whose members maintain or seek faculties, employment, or residence in the Archdiocese of Boston.

In accord with the law promulgated by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, a review of these Policies and Procedures is to be completed by 8 December 2004 (cf. USCCB, Essential Norms §1). Revised, approved and promulgated. Given at the Chancery of the Archdiocese of Boston, this 26th day of June A.D. 2003 To take effect the 1st day of July A.D. 2003.