WelCom May 2022
Sr Catherine Jones smsm, Safeguarding Adviser, Archdiocese of Wellington
‘Preach the Good News’ is the title of the recent document from Pope Francis, 19 March 2022, implementing the reform of the Vatican government departments.
The new organisation is a renewed call to put evangelisation – sharing the good news – at the centre of the Church’s life and mission.
There are important implications for Safeguarding (Protection of Minors), which is in the new Dicastery (Office) for the Doctrine of the Faith. With direct access to Pope Francis, the new Dicastery’s task is to advise the pope, and to propose initiatives for the protection of minors and vulnerable persons. This will lead to a stronger culture of Safeguarding throughout the whole Church, and to ensuring the Church is a safe place for all.
The Archdiocese of Wellington is committed to working to ensure this vision become a reality for all in our diocese.
Safeguarding is at the heart of our mission as a church as we pray …
Loving and merciful God,
in this season of confronting the failures of the Church
help us as members of the body of Christ
to listen actively to the words of those who have suffered
to walk alongside those who seek justice
to hear the cry of those who still suffer the pain of abuse
and to stay the course in this work
which is at the heart of our mission as a Church:
to be a place of safety and care for all who encounter it.
Lord Hear Us.