Recognizing signs of abuse

The Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome. © Paolo Galosi (CBA)

How to protect children from sexual abuse will inform a seminar next week at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome.

The event on 23. The March conference is titled "Protective measures at home and school: learning from experiences worldwide". It is organized by the Center for Child Protection, based there, in collaboration with the Pontifical Commission for Child Protection.

Among the topics to be discussed is how to "promote and develop a culture of protection in Catholic schools, institutions and communities," according to Vatican Radio. Latin America, he said, was a particular focus of the international seminar.

Creating a safe environment

Accordingly, the Child Protection Commission, in its announcement with, stresses the need to understand in all areas of the Church how to recognize signs of abuse. The chair of the relevant working group, Kathleen McCormack, cites creating a safe environment in churches and parishes to prevent abuse as a key concern.

Guest speakers from Argentina, Colombia and Mexico are also scheduled to speak at the seminar. Presided over by the president of the papal commission for the protection of children, Boston Cardinal Sean O'Malley. Experts from Australia and Italy are also expected to attend.