Safe Environment

Each person has an inherent dignity as a beloved child of God. The Diocese of Green Bay is committed to providing a safe environment in our parishes, in our schools, in our Faith Formation programs, and in all of our ministries, especially those that serve children, youth and individuals at risk. If you want to learn more about the programs and resources available through the Diocese of Green Bay to live out this commitment, please click on the following link: http://www.gbdioc.org/ministry-formation-portal/safe-environment.html


Listening Sessions

Bishop Ricken held listening sessions at parishes throughout the diocese in regard to the abuse crisis. In addition to voicing their opinions and concerns, people were able to submit questions to the bishop. His responses to major themes that appeared in those questions are detailed in a 4-part series: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, and Part 4. You will also find these in the Action Steps to Accountability summary link below.


Action Steps to Accountability

Bishop Ricken's September 2018 Action Steps to Accountability report lists ways the Diocese of Green Bay has committed to addressing the clergy sexual abuse crisis. A summary of all information since that report can be found here: https://www.thecompassnews.org/2018/10/promise-to-protect-action-steps-to-accountability/

How to report Abuse

If you know of an incident of sexual abuse of a person who is now under the age of 18 by a priest, deacon, employee, or volunteer, IMMEDIATELY CALL THE CIVIL AUTHORITIES AND THEN THE DIOCESE. Diocesan phone number: (920) 437-7531.


If the person was abused as a minor but is now an adult, please contact:

Courtney Coopmans

Diocesan Safe Environment Coordinator

Catholic Diocese of Green Bay

P.O. Box 23825

Green Bay, WI 54305-3825


Telephone: 1-877-270-8174 or (920) 272-8174



Awareity Incident Reporting System

Awareity is a comprehensive platform for reporting, tracking, and documenting incidents and concerns, making it simple and confidential to share red flag behaviors such as:

  • Harassment
  • Boundary issues
  • Threats of violence
  • Concerning behavior by clergy, staff, or volunteers
  • Misconduct
  • Anything that you may find stressful or out of the ordinary and feel compelled to bring forward regarding clergy, staff, or volunteers

The goal of Awareity is prevention and to help identify red flags and warning signs before an incident occurs or escalates. For more information, visit the Diocese of Green Bay website at gbdioc.org/awareity or download the Awareity Informational Flyer.



If you want to report a concern, click on the Awareity Incident Report button (green butterfly icon):

Butterfly