Office of Assistance Ministry
The Office of Assistance Ministry provides pastoral care, support and resources to victim/survivors of clerical sexual abuse, and their loved ones, in their efforts to achieve psychological, emotional and spiritual healing. Since its creation as one of the first victim assistance ministries in the United States, the Office of Assistance Ministry has provided services and support to over 400 victims-survivors and their family members. We are here to help, listen and connect you to the right services.
Mayra Flores, BA
Director
312.534.3380
[email protected]
Judy Gavina
Administrative Assistant
CAIR & OAM Support
312.534.8256
[email protected]
Outreach and Resources
The Office of Assistance Ministry and its professional staff recognize that, for many, it’s difficult to find the courage to let officials of the Archdiocese know they were sexually abused by a member of the church. After a formal allegation is made, the office offers a variety of services including counseling, spiritual direction, support groups and other social services to support them with their healing process. Many victims/survivors and their families have found this list of resources helpful. (PDF)
Victim-Survivor Outreach and Resources
If you are in immediate danger of seriously harming yourself or being harmed by someone else, please call 911. If you are struggling with thoughts of suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1.800.273.8255, or click here to access their live chat available 24 hours, seven days a week in English and Spanish.
Many victims/survivors have found the following list of resources useful. These resources are intended to be informative. It should not be considered a substitute for seeking consultation from a mental health professional.
Catholic Charities Holbrook Counseling Center
DePaul Family and Community Services
Erikson Center for Children and Families
Loving Outreach to Survivors of Suicide (LOSS)
National Center for PTSD and PTSD Coach App
One in Six
A site for male survivors.
RAINN
The nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization. RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline (800.656.HOPE). Please click here for the Spanish site.
10 Ways to Teach Your Children the Skills to Prevent Sexual Abuse