By Patrick Downes | Hawaii Catholic Herald
The Diocese of Honolulu has a new victim assistance coordinator, the person assigned to assist victims of sexual abuse by clergy, church employees or volunteers in Hawaii.
She is Edwina Reyes of Catholic Charities Hawaii. Bishop Larry Silva appointed her last month. She replaces Joseph Bloom.
The victim assistance coordinator is a position required in every U.S. diocese ever since the clergy sex abuse scandal exploded eight years ago. Her responsibilities include the following:
- To be the primary point of contact between the diocese and victims reporting allegations of sexual abuse by clergy or other church personnel.
- To help people seeking guidance in reporting abuse or obtaining therapy.
- To document allegations for the diocesan vicar for clergy.
- To report to civil authorities any allegation that involves a crime.
Reyes has worked for Catholic Charities Hawaii since 2002. She is a program director for Hi Impact, a federally-funded program treating children and families exposed to trauma, which would include sex abuse, domestic violence and community violence.
She is a licensed marriage and family therapist and a substance abuse counselor.
Reyes, who describes herself as coming from a faith-based background as an active member of a Pentecostal Christian church, said she understands the significance of this position.
“This is a very important cause,” she said. “I want to be able to treat [the victims] with sensitivity so that they get the healing that they need.”
She said she also hopes to “offer support to the church” in this area.
Reyes, 35, was born and raised in Hawaii. She and her husband have two children.
The position of victim assistance coordinator position is one of the diocesan requirements listed in the “Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People,” which was adopted in 2002 by the U.S. Catholic bishops.
Reyes said she will attend an orientation conference in the fall on the mainland regarding to her new responsibilities. The Office of Clergy of the Diocese of Honolulu will offer her further guidance, professional support and training.
The Victim Assistance Coordinator does not investigate allegations or determine their veracity. These are the duties of the Diocesan Review Board, which presents its findings and recommendations to the bishop.
Sexual abuse victims may reach Reyes at Catholic Charities Hawaii at 524-4673. Or they may call her directly at 527-4981.