WASHINGTON (October 18, 2002) -- Statement issued by the National Review Board for the Protection of Children and Youth, October 18, 2002:

The National Review Board is comforted by the overall support given by the Vatican to the efforts of the American bishops to end this ugly chapter of clerical sexual abuse. Clearly the entire Church is united in its determination to assure a safe environment for children and young people while providing the necessary safeguards of due process. We stand ready to assist in any way as the Dallas Charter is further refined in accord with Rome's direction. Once that work is completed next month, there will be an urgent need for all American Catholics - bishops, priests, and laity alike - to give life to the charter with strong action and resolve. We members of the review board rededicate ourselves to fulfilling our part of that promise.

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