«When you implement preventive practices, you are writing a promise: that every child, every vulnerable person, will find a safe environment in the ecclesial community. This is the driving force behind what should be an integral conversion for us.1
The 2024 report on the Focolare Movement's activities in the field of protection of the person has now been published. We introduced it with the words of the Pope Francis recently addressed the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors. We feel strongly called to carry out this “integral conversion” to which the Holy Father appeals: to continue with perseverance on the path of formation and authentic closeness, aware of the need for change so that each person feels safe, loved, and respected in our environments and in our various activities.
From the perspective of Protection, three elements characterized the Focolare Movement last year:
- Listening to and participation of victims and witnessesIn various ways, the victims were able to tell their stories of great suffering and the grave consequences for their lives and the communities they were or continue to be part of. Listening to these people marked a turning point for everyone present.
- Lthe expansion of courses and training events for all participants;
- Updated, implemented and prepared regulatory documents and guidelines, with the update of the Protocol for cases of abuse and the drafting of the Guidelines for listening and reception services.
