The American Province of the Order of St. Paul the First Hermit works with Praesidium, Inc., of Arlington, Texas, to strengthen our internal policies for training our members to safeguard children from sexual abuse. Praesidium is an independent agency and is not a part of the Catholic Church. It contracts with the Conference of Major Superiors of Men (CMSM) in the United States to provide standards of training for priests and brothers who are members of religious orders. Our Pauline Province in the USA has received and maintain accreditation from Praesidium. 

Today all applicants to the Province are screened according to Praesidium approved standards. Their screening includes a psychological evaluation, a criminal background check, letters of reference, and a review of their social media. We do ongoing training and criminal background checks on all our members. The Pauline Fathers and Brothers also cooperate fully with all dioceses in which we do ministry. 

Our policy for responding to allegations of sexual abuse of minors has also been approved by Praesidium. We take all allegations seriously and treat those making the allegations with respect and compassion. Under our policy, any allegation against a member of our community is investigated by our Victim Assistance Coordinator. Our Review Board, comprised of lay persons and religious, reviews the report of the Victim Assistance Coordinator and makes recommendations to the Provincial Superior of the Order regarding the allegation and the father or brother who has been accused. 

More information about Praesidium, Inc.:

 https://website.praesidiuminc.com/wp/