STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESS

• It’s not unusual to have bishops who have a conflict of interest bring in someone from the outside. Check out our list of ones to avoid

• Remember that the intake officer and bishop are people too. If you can meet with them face-toface, it helps them put a face with the name and size you up

• If the diocese tries to play the sin-leveling game, politely call it out. That’s when you hear some variation of, “Well, you did ______. “ Nice try, folks. Title IV only applies to clergy.

• If there is background that would be helpful, share it. For instance, knowing you have PTSD may help the bishop understand why you look uncomfortable. Or you may have Aunt Irma, who’s batsnot cray and hasn’t helped matters any. Share that.

• When you file your complaint, consider doing it in writing. That way, the intake officer is less likely to focus on the fact that the Bad Guy took your parking space, and instead focus on the $1.2 million he embezzled. Yeah, it happens.