This year’s Safeguarding Sunday theme, Every Conversation Matters. Shifting Conversations to Action, reminds us that listening, speaking up and responding with care are vital steps in building a culture of safety and trust.

As we celebrate Safeguarding Sunday on 13 September, at the conclusion of National Child Protection Week, we renew our commitment to ensuring our parishes, communities and ministries are places where children, young people and adults at risk are welcomed, valued and protected.

This year, I invite every parish, school and community to participate in the Safeguarding Commitment Wall Competition, proudly facilitated by the Integrity and Safeguarding Department. Let us encourage both children and adults to reflect on the important role each of us plays in creating safe, welcoming and inclusive communities where everyone can flourish.

As we mark Safeguarding Sunday, we pray for all those who have experienced abuse, directly or indirectly. May they find healing, support and hope. Let us also pray for wisdom, compassion and the courage to continue building communities where every person feels safe, respected and valued, and where everyone knows they belong.

Conversations about safeguarding raise awareness and encourage people to seek help. Yet real change happens when those conversations lead to action. As followers of Christ, we are called to foster Communities where every person feels safe, included and heard.

Safeguarding is more than policies or compliance. It is a practical expression of the Gospel and our commitment to uphold the dignity of every person. Through the support of the Integrity and Safeguarding Department, Safeguarding continues to be embedded across our parishes, schools and ministries.

I thank our clergy, parish leaders, safeguarding contact persons, volunteers, employees and all who contribute to creating safe and welcoming communities. Your dedication demonstrates that safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility and strengthens a culture of care, safety and trust across our Archdiocese.

The Safeguarding Operations Team will share more information in coming weeks.

For enquiries, contact caasafeoperations@adelaide.catholic.org.au.