Safeguarding Sunday - turning conversations into action
Opinion
Parishes across the Archdiocese of Adelaide will come together on September 14 to mark Safeguarding Sunday, a dedicated day to reflect on our shared responsibility to protect children, young people and adults at risk by creating safe, inclusive and respectful Church environments.
It is a time to renew our commitment to uphold the dignity of every person and support the safeguarding structures that help ensure all are protected. The occasion also aligns with National Child Protection Week (September 7-13), offering a moment to reflect on the importance of safeguarding and to celebrate the work already being done to build cultures of care.
This year’s theme of ‘Every conversation matters: Shifting conversation to action’ emphasises that while open discussions about child safety are crucial, they must lead to tangible steps that create safer environments for all. It’s a call to move beyond awareness and actively implement measures that prevent harm and nurture wellbeing in every corner of Church life.
As part of Safeguarding Sunday, Archbishop Patrick O’Regan invites all people of faith to pray for those affected by abuse, whether directly or indirectly, and to recommit to creating communities that are safe, healing and just. In this spirit, the Archdiocese encourages parishes to hold a formal commissioning ceremony during Mass to honour and bless the parish priest, Parish Pastoral Council members and chairperson, and the Safeguarding Contact Person(s). This public gesture recognises their vital role in fostering a culture of care and accountability and affirms their ongoing service to the community.
Archbishop O’Regan encourages all parishes to embrace Safeguarding Sunday as an opportunity to celebrate the presence of children and young people in our lives. In the spirit of participation and celebration, every parish is invited to take part in a banner creation competition.
Children and families can collaborate on one banner per parish that brings the Safeguarding Sunday theme to life in a creative and meaningful way. Young parishioners may bring their favourite art supplies from home to contribute to a colourful, welcoming design. Completed banners will be displayed in church spaces as visible symbols of the parish’s commitment to safety and inclusion. Selected banners may also be featured in parish newsletters or on social media to further raise awareness.
To help parishes mark the occasion joyfully, the Archdiocese will provide balloons for children, helping to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Parishes are also encouraged to host a morning tea after Mass to strengthen community connections and foster continued conversations about safeguarding and wellbeing.
Safeguarding is not the work of a single person or team, but the responsibility of the whole Church. Safeguarding Sunday is an opportunity to put this into practice, as per the theme. By celebrating Safeguarding Sunday together, we take another step forward in our mission to be communities where all people feel valued, protected and heard. Through small actions, public recognition, creative engagement and shared conversations, we continue to foster a culture of care and accountability in our Church.
Together, we can build a Church where all people are safe, supported and respected.
For resources or further support, contact the Integrity and Safeguarding Department at 8210 8150 or email caasafeoperations@adelaide.catholic.org.au.
For more information on Safeguarding Sunday and access to national resources visit napcan.org.au
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