“In our ecclesial ministry of protecting minors, closeness to victims of abuse is no abstract concept but a very concrete reality comprised of listening, intervening, preventing, and assisting,” the pope continued.
The pope also spoke on the importance of bringing greater visibility to the commission’s work.
“People should know and see how you are accompanying local Churches in their ministry of safeguarding minors. Your closeness will strengthen local ecclesial authorities to share best practices and verify that adequate measures have been taken,” the pope observed.
Francis highlighted the commission’s annual report as well as the Memorare Initiative as two examples of how the body’s work has assumed a “more defined shape” in making the Church “an increasingly safe place for minors and vulnerable adults.”
The Memorare Initiative was launched by the PCPM in 2023 in order to assist local Churches, namely in the global South, in training programs as well as in guiding abuse prevention policies. In December 2023, the commission approved a grant of 230,000 euros to help institute “safeguarding initiatives” in several countries including Paraguay, Panama, and Mauritius, and to the Association of Members Episcopal Conference in Eastern Africa (AMECEA).
“This is a very concrete way for the commission to demonstrate its closeness to the leadership of these Churches,” the pope explained. “This will create a network of solidarity with victims and those who promote their rights, especially where resources and experience are limited.”
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