Like Pope Francis Pope Leo has made it clear he expects the Church, on every level, to implement whatever steps are necessary to ensure the protection of children, youth and vulnerable adults and to respond to their needs with fairness and mercy.
Pope Leo XIV’s appointment of the new president of the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors (pictured below) shows that safeguarding remains a top priority, its former president said.
“Our Holy Father Pope Leo XIV has affirmed the continued priority of the commission’s work for the universal church in his thoughtful appointment” of Archbishop Thibault Verny of Chambéry, France, as the new president of the commission, said Cardinal Seán P. O’Malley.
“The Holy Father’s words and deeds in these early months of his pontificate assure the world that the church will not grow complacent in her efforts to as best possible ensure the protection of children, vulnerable adults, and all people in our communities,” he said in a written statement released July 5, the day the Vatican announced the new appointment.”
Safeguarding is working together to make our church a place where children, youth and vulnerable adults are safe from harm.
Ensuring we have a culture where the safety of children, youth and vulnerable adults is paramount. Following processes to ensure our ministry to children, youth and vulnerable adults leaves no room for harm to occur.
Not only will the Safeguarding Programme enable us to work safely in our ministries with children, youth and vulnerable adults, it will also give guidance and support to our many wonderful and dedicated volunteers involved in these ministries. Parish resources for volunteers i.e. volunteer agreements, task descriptions, risk assessments, policy procedures are available on our website.
Creating safe environments involves active participation and responsibility taken by all parishes. It requires collaboration, vigilance and a proactive approach through policies, procedures and practices.
To view Policies, Processes, Workshops & Resources: https://www.aucklandcatholic.org.nz/services/safeguarding/
For More information on Safeguarding: www.safeguarding.catholic.org.nz