Bishop Cozzens
It was shared in February that, after prayer and discernment and discussions with the Diocesan Finance Council (MRB) and Ministerial Review Boards (MRB), I decided to create a part-time Bishops delegate position within our Office of Safe Environment.
The diocesan process for handling misconduct allegations will be managed by the delegate. This position will ensure compliance with the law, Safe Environment policies, procedures, and the USCCB Charter. The MRB’s work will be supported by the delegate. He or she will also work with Office of Safe Environment staff to plan, audit, and certify programming. This role has been filled by the Vicar General until now. However, this new hire will provide a qualified layperson with oversight of all allegations as they move through the disclosure process.
The job was advertised for six week and I am grateful for the numerous applicants from our area who offered their services and were interviewed. I am pleased to inform you that Mr. Jim Remer has been offered the job and has accepted. He will start May 1.
Jim, a parishioner in Sacred Heart Parish in East Grand Forks retired in 2021, after a career of more than 30 years in law enforcement. Jim and Joann have been married 30 years. They have three adult daughters, Stacy and Michele.
Jim earned a B.S. degree in 1989. In Criminal Justice Studies at the University of North Dakota, Jim earned a B.S. Jim rose through the ranks in Grand Forks Police Department. He was first an officer, then a sergeant, lieutenant and finally, Deputy Chief between 2015 and 2021.
Jim managed sworn as well as non-sworn training for Grand Forks’ 100+ members police department. He also managed multi-agency, multi-jurisdictional investigations, provided local, regional, national and international training on investigative subjects, and conducted background investigations for potential employees.
Jim has been a valued member in the Diocese Crookston MRB since 2015. He has worked closely alongside staff, clergy, and other members to help them through difficult situations and make recommendations for the bishop to take action on critical matters. Jim has served in various law enforcement and volunteer positions, helping victims of crimes and other situations. His leadership has been in the area healing for those who are involved in difficult situations.
Jim is a man of prayer and a servant leader. He has a lot of energy and enthusiasm. I look forward for all that lies ahead for the local Church with Jim as Delegate and his experience in creating and maintaining safe environments.
In Christ,
The Most Rev. Andrew H. Cozzens S.T.D.
Bishop of Crookston