Creating a Safe Environment

You do not have to deal with this alone. The Diocese of Rochester promises:

• To listen with compassion and understanding to your story and to investigate fully
• To provide you with names of advocates, support groups, counselors and individual therapists.
• To give you help with spiritual questions and spiritual guidance.
• To protect your privacy

We understand that coming forward with a complaint might be difficult – even frightening. We sincerely want to ease your pain and help you find healing. We’ll also provide a link to non-diocesan people who can help you.

If you have been a victim of sexual abuse, you should contact the appropriate civil authorities. To receive help and guidance from the Roman Catholic Diocese of Rochester please contact:

Deborah Housel, victim assistance coordinator
(585) 328-3210, ext. 1555, or  toll-free 1-800-388-7177, ext. 1555 or email to