The Communities of the Order of the Cistercians of the Strict Observance are committed to the safeguarding of children and vulnerable adults. Therefore, we have declared
in our Constitutions and Statutes:
The communities of the Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance are unwavering in their duty to protect children and vulnerable adults. This pledge is written into our foundational texts:
C30 bis: Safeguarding of Minors and Vulnerable Adults
Each community and each member of the Order, attentive to the respect and dignity of each person, in particular minors and fragile persons, is vigilant in the prevention of all forms of abuse of power, of conscience and of sexual aggression.
St 30bis A:
A community protocol will be drawn up with the various church bodies. The community will receive training on this subject.
St 30bis B:
The protocol and its application are to be reviewed during the regular visitation.
and in the Ratio Institutionis, the document on formation:
16bis: Each member of the community shall receive training on the prevention of all forms of abuse. Reference should be made to the norms of the country and of the local and universal Church. Communities are encouraged to receive specialist help in these areas in collaboration with their diocese and region.
For more information or to raise a concern, please contact first the individual community involved or write a letter to
O.C.S.O. – Safeguarding Delegate
Viale Africa 33
00144 Roma
Italia
June 2025
The Community of Notre-Dame de Tamié has been informed that our former Brother Philippe, a monk and priest of the abbey from 1974 to 2016, now deceased, engaged in inappropriate behaviour constituting sexual violence. There is currently a call for testimonials.
April 2025
A canonical investigation at the monastery of Naši Paní nad Vltavou in the Czech Republic confirmed that certain abuses of authority and of spiritual abuse have taken place there in recent years. These abuses have caused pain and suffering, which we deeply regret.
The situation is being addressed. A programme of healing and renewal has begun within the community.
The Order is ready to listen to anyone who has been affected by this situation.