Pope Francis creates pontifical committee for World Day of Children

Pope Francis announced the establishment of the new Pontifical Committee for the World Day of Children.

In his chirograph released on November 20, he has tasked the new Vatican body with the mission of “promoting, organizing, and animating the World Day for Children.”

He described this annual event as an opportunity to unite dioceses worldwide about the needed pastoral action for children.

The Holy Father also said that this would help children to “know, love, and serve Our Lord Jesus Christ in His role as Friend and Good Shepherd and to root their faith in the tradition of the holy children whom the Church treasures as a spiritual heritage”.

The pope has appointed Fr. Enzo Fortunato, O.F.M. Conv., as the first president of the committee.

Pope Francis also expressed his hope that the pontifical committee will help make the World Day of Children a sustained effort in the global Church and not just an isolated event.

Meanwhile, on his weekly General Audience on November 20, the Holy Father announced a summit focused on children’s rights will be held at the Vatican on February 3, 2025.

The theme chosen for this upcoming event is “Love Them and Protect Them,” which is expected to welcome experts and guests from different countries.

Pope Francis said the summit will discuss new methods of helping and protecting “millions of children who still have no rights, living in precarious conditions, exploited and abused, and suffering the dramatic consequences of wars.”