In the context of this website, Responsible Ministry is a term that applies to all clergy (Bishops, Priests, Deacons), as well as officially mandated pastoral agents (be they laity or members of institutes/religious orders) and entails a commitment on their part to protecting minors and all persons from sexual abuse/assault, developing and implementing strong protocols aligned with canon and secular laws in Canada, and fostering pastoral compassion toward victims-survivors, their families as well as affected faith communities.