A former long-term principal of Holy Sepulcher Catholic School is a key component of the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh's newest efforts to better handle child sexual abuse allegations.

The diocese announced Tuesday three changes in its ongoing efforts, including the appointment of Sister Anna Marie Gaglia to the role of diocesan victim assistance coordinator. The diocese is also launching a new third-party abuse reporting system and contracting with a new company for internal investigations.

Gaglia served as principal at Holy Sepulcher for eight years through the end of the 2017-18 school year. Last year, she served in a consulting role for the school.

In this new role — which takes effect in October — Gaglia replaces the retiring Rita Flaherty, a social worker who has filled the position since 1993.

“I really welcome the opportunity to serve in what I think is a critical time for the church,” Gaglia said.

Gaglia misses her time at Holy Sepulcher already, but said she's pleased to pursue a “healing mission” for the church.

“It'll be a time to engage some people who have really been hurt and, hopefully, to restore some hope and some faith in God,” Gaglia said.

In a news release, Bishop David Zubik said he believes Gaglia will carry on Flaherty's work well.

“Sister Anna Marie will build on that solid foundation with her pastoral heart for those who hurt and with her determination to see that the church's first priority is to do the will and the work of the good shepherd,” Zubik said.

Aside from her time as a principal, Gaglia worked as a therapist, counselor and has a master's degree in counseling.

The Pittsburgh diocese also announced Tuesday it would join 30 other dioceses in adopting the use of a third-party reporting system. Ethics Point is a reporting line accessed via phone hotline or website in which people can make anonymous reports about possible misconduct of a personal, financial or professional nature.

Although the diocese's existing abuse hotline at 888-808-1235 will remain in use, Ethics Point is being launched as a reporting option outside the church. It can be used by parishioners or Catholic Church workers or volunteers.

The diocese is also hiring CSI Investigators Inc., a private investigator group “founded and run by professionals experienced in law enforcement,” to conduct its internal investigations into allegations that, for various reasons, aren't able to be handled by law enforcement.