Friendship Day highlights safety, belonging and participation in parish life
Local
On 30 July, communities around the world mark the International Day of Friendship, a United Nations initiative recognising the role that relationships play in building understanding, respect and peace across cultures.
But friendship is more than something we celebrate once a year. In our parish communities, it’s something we live out every day.
This special day invites us to pause and reflect: How do we create spaces where everyone feels safe, included and truly belongs? These values sit at the heart of the Australian Catholic Safeguarding Standards, especially Standard 2, which reminds us that children and adults at risk should be safe, informed, and able to participate fully in community life.
Friendship isn’t just about companionship – it can be deeply protective.
For children, strong and positive friendships help them feel safe, reduce loneliness and build confidence. Whether it’s through children’s liturgy, youth groups or parish activities, these moments of connection allow young people to feel included, speak up, and be themselves.
When children feel they belong, they are more likely to trust others and share when something doesn’t feel right. In this way, friendship becomes a quiet but powerful safeguard.
At the same time, it is important to recognise that relationships can involve power imbalances. Differences in age, ability, confidence or social influence can affect who feels able to speak, contribute or be heard. These dynamics can exist among children and also among adults at risk. In line with Standard 2, creating a safe environment means being aware of these differences and actively supporting inclusive participation.
Parish leaders have a key role in encouraging respectful interactions, promoting fairness and ensuring that all individuals are given the opportunity to be heard. This helps reduce the risk of exclusion and supports a culture where people feel confident to express themselves.
For adults – especially those who may be vulnerable or at risk – connection is just as important.
A simple invitation to stay for morning tea, a friendly conversation after Mass, or encouragement to join a group can make a meaningful difference. These small gestures help reduce isolation and create a sense of belonging.
Sometimes, the simplest acts of kindness have the greatest impact.
Supporting participation also involves ensuring that people are informed and engaged in decisions that affect them. In parish settings, this can include involving children in shaping their group experiences. For example, leaders may work with children during liturgy or youth activities to develop a shared Code of Conduct, exploring what respectful behaviour looks like and agreeing on expectations together. This encourages responsibility, supports inclusion and promotes mutual respect.
Feeling safe also means knowing where to go when something isn’t right.
Children and adults at risk should know who they can speak to – such as the parish Safeguarding Contact Person – and trust that their concerns will be listened to and taken seriously by Integrity and Professional Standards.
When people know they will be heard and supported, they are more likely to reach out. That’s how we build communities of care and accountability.
As we recognise the International Day of Friendship, its message holds particular significance within parish life.
While friendships are often expressed through simple acts of kindness, they also reflect the deeper foundations of safety, respect and belonging.
By nurturing inclusive relationships and supporting participation, parish communities can continue to build environments where everyone feels safe, valued and welcome.
This Friendship Day, take a moment to reach out.
Invite someone for a chat. Welcome someone new. Make space for connection.
Because even the smallest act of kindness can help build a safer, stronger and more supportive parish community.
You can also explore resources on our website under the Integrity and Safeguarding Department – Resources section to support age-appropriate understanding of safe and respectful relationships for children and adults at risk.
For more information on safeguarding practices, volunteer requirements, training, or how to create safe and inclusive environments within parishes across the Archdiocese, contact the team on 8210 8150 or email caasafeoperations@adelaide.catholic.org.au for guidance, resources or support.
