Committed to a safe and welcoming Church
News
As parishes marked Safeguarding Sunday on September 14, Archbishop Patrick O’Regan has described it as an opportunity to not only reaffirm safeguarding practices and protocols but to celebrate the presence of children, young people and those who are vulnerable.
“Safeguarding Sunday also invites people to pray for those harmed by abuse directly and indirectly and recognise the importance of change to ensure we are a safe, hope-filled and welcoming Church,” Archbishop O’Regan said.
“The Archdiocese of Adelaide is committed to the care, wellbeing and protection of our children, young people and those who are vulnerable, as led and guided by the Integrity and Safeguarding Department.
Parishes and communities were encouraged to help celebrate the day by endorsing the National Child Protection Week 2025 theme that “every conversation about safeguarding matters”. This included participating in an art banner competition.
In addition, the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference provided a variety of resources for liturgical celebrations on Safeguarding Sunday.
“As a Church we are ‘shifting conversations to action’ to create a safe environment for all,” Archbishop O’Regan said.
Chair of the Bishops Commission for Professional Standards and Safeguarding, Bishop Greg Bennet, said every member of the Church has a responsibility for safeguarding.
Bishop Bennet said it was important to continue to work for healing and justice for survivors.
“We commit ourselves to building a safe, hope-filled and welcoming Church, where children can thrive and lead lives of meaning and purpose,” Bishop Bennet said.
The Church has made significant steps in addressing the findings of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse.
“The work of Australian Catholic Safeguarding Ltd has been pivotal and the National Catholic Safeguarding Standards provide a consistent approach across the Church”, Bishop Bennet said.
“The safety of children and young people is our priority and we will not tire from our efforts to create a safe, hope-filled and welcoming Church,” he said.
The Church is showing national leadership in safeguarding services including:
- Professional development to boost the capacity of Catholic organisations
- Reviews, audits and assessments of Catholic organisations
- Managing the Australian Catholic Ministry Register
- Awareness and communication
