How do you make a complaint about a Catholic priest?

Depending upon the nature of the complaint, you either call the local police, or you contact the pastor of your parish. If the priest in question is the pastor of your parish, then you contact the office of the bishop of your diocese.

ANSWER:

Your first step is to contact the diocesan Bishop. In most cases it is best to write, outlining the complaint so that the Bishop has a clear and concise outline of your complaint. Be sure to include dates and time, if appropriate and whether there are other people who may be able to either corroborate your complaint, or may possibly be having similar challenges.

If your complaint involves any allegations of illegalities, be certain to write down, in the clearest terms, what happened, what you said, what was said to you, where were you at the time, was there anyone present at the time.

If your complaint is a matter for the laity, then it's appropriate to first discuss the matter with the PCC (Parochial Church Council) or vestry members to seek guidance. It could be damaging to go directly to the Bishop should the matter involve something of which the laity already have knowledge and are working to resolve. Failure to do so could lead to embarrassment and possible alienation of friendships within the parish.