Pope Francis has urged the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors to persevere in their crucial mission with “unwavering dedication and renewed hope.”  He characterized the Commission’s efforts as vital “oxygen” for the Church worldwide. The Pope’s heartfelt communication was addressed to attendees of the Commission’s Spring Plenary Assembly, which is being held in Rome from 24th to 28th March 2025. 

In his first message since release on Sunday from a five-week hospitalization, the Holy Father emphasized the critical importance of protecting children and vulnerable individuals, stating that it is a fundamental aspect of Christian testimony. 

“Where there is a child or a vulnerable person who is safe, there Christ is served and honored” – Pope Francis  

The Pontifical Commission was established to advise the Holy Father on best safeguarding practices and to assist local churches and religious institutions in developing comprehensive protection frameworks. 

Pope Francis praised the Commission’s worldwide efforts, particularly in disadvantaged regions, highlighting its mission as embodying a “prophetic truth”: that the prevention of abuse is not merely a short-term reaction to crises but a fundamental aspect of community life rooted deeply in the Gospel. 

In his address, Pope Francis outlined three key priorities for the Commission’s future work:  

First, he encouraged enhanced collaboration with Vatican Dicasteries to embed safeguarding policies into every facet of Church governance.  

Secondly, he emphasized fostering a culture of pastoral care and genuine empathy for survivors, urging Commission members to “listen with the ear of the heart” so that survivors encounter not bureaucratic processes, but compassionate hearts “moved by mercy.”  

Lastly, the Pope stressed the importance of forming alliances beyond the boundaries of the Church—engaging civil authorities, specialists, and external organizations—to transform safeguarding into a “universal language” understood and adopted globally. 

The Pope warned against bureaucratic complacency and urged vigilance:  

“Your work is not limited to protocols to be followed, but promotes protective systems : an education that teaches, controls prevention, a listening that restores dignity.” – Pope Francis 

Reflecting on the Commission’s over decade-long work, Pope Francis thanked its members for creating “a safety net within the Church.” He urged the Commission to press forward:  

“Be sentinels who keep watch while the world sleeps. May the Holy Spirit preserve us from the temptation to file pain away instead of healing it.” – Pope Francis 

The plenary assembly, held annually in Rome, gathers members of the Commission from around the world to review progress, share best practices, and coordinate global safeguarding strategies. This year’s meeting holds particular significance, as it marks both the eleventh anniversary of the Commission and the pope’s return to active ministry after his hospitalization.