Pope urges greater commitment to safeguarding minors

In a powerful and pastoral message, Pope Francis addressed participants of the Plenary Assembly of the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors, currently taking place in Rome from March 24 to 28, 2025.

The Holy Father encouraged the Church’s safeguarding leaders to remain vigilant, compassionate, and collaborative in their mission to protect children and vulnerable individuals.

“Wherever a child or vulnerable person is safe, there you serve and honor Christ,” Pope Francis said in his message. He likened their work to “oxygen” for the Church—life-giving and essential to building communities that are faithful to the Gospel.

The pope emphasized that safeguarding must go beyond policies and paperwork. It is, he said, about cultivating a culture of listening, formation, and dignity.

“Abuse prevention is not a blanket to be spread over emergencies,” the Pope warned, “but one of the foundations on which to build communities faithful to the Gospel.”

He thanked the Commission for their decade-long commitment, especially in reaching out to disadvantaged and remote areas, reminding them that every prevention effort becomes a promise—that no child or vulnerable person will be left unprotected in the Church’s care.

Pope Francis called on the Commission to focus on three major commitments as it continues its mission of safeguarding:

First, he urged stronger collaboration with the Dicasteries of the Roman Curia, emphasizing the need for unified and coordinated efforts across the Church. He reminded them that the Church must integrate safeguarding into its broader life and work at every level.

Second, the Holy Father emphasized the importance of compassionate listening to victims and survivors of abuse. Inspired by the example of the Good Samaritan, he called for a response that goes beyond formal procedures.

“Listen with the ear of the heart,” he said, “so that every testimony finds the depths of mercy from which to be reborn, rather than registers to be compiled.”

Third, Pope Francis encouraged the Commission to build partnerships with civil authorities, professionals, and organizations outside the Church. Such alliances, he said, are essential to ensure that child protection becomes a universal language shared across society.

With heartfelt conviction, the pope concluded, “Keep going! Continue to be sentinels that keep watch while the world sleeps.”

In many parts of Asia, the challenge of child protection and abuse prevention remains a sensitive and urgent concern. Pope Francis’ message is a strong reminder that safeguarding is not optional—it is an essential expression of the Church’s mission. It calls for every diocese, parish, and religious community to become safe spaces where children and the vulnerable can grow in dignity and peace.