By Sunny A. David, Awka
Pope Francis urges the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors to prioritize healing and systemic change in tackling child abuse within the Church.
In a message released ahead of its annual plenary assembly (March 24-28), Pope Francis lauded the Commission’s crucial role in safeguarding children and vulnerable individuals within the Church.
He likened the Commission’s work to “oxygen” for local communities, emphasizing that ensuring safety is a vital expression of Christian commitment.
Established in 2014, the Commission advises the Pope on safeguarding policies and preventing abuse. Critically, Francis stressed that effective prevention isn’t just about protocols, but a fundamental shift towards building safe communities.
He highlighted the need for education, prevention programs, and a deep commitment to listening to and healing survivors.
Francis emphasized that such efforts, even in remote communities, embody a promise of safety for all vulnerable individuals within the Church.
To strengthen the Commission’s impact, Pope Francis outlined three key commitments: Francis underscored the necessity of closer cooperation between the Commission and Vatican Dicasteries (departments) to address the issue of abuse comprehensively.
The Commission should focus on compassionate care for survivors, modeling the approach of the Good Samaritan, emphasizing mercy over bureaucratic procedures.
Pope Francis encouraged collaboration with external organizations, including civil authorities, experts, and support groups, to create a universally understood safeguarding language.
Acknowledging progress in Church safeguarding, the Pope cautioned against dismissing survivors’ pain and urged the Commission to prioritize healing and urged them to learn from the Holy Spirit’s capacity for remembrance and avoid dismissing grief.
Concluding, Pope Francis expressed gratitude for the Commission’s prayers and offered his spiritual support during his recovery from pneumonia.
