Almost twenty years ago, CMSM made very clear commitments to what was then called the protection of minors and what is now called safeguarding. It is important to underscore that we as men religious are committed to safeguarding, we do not simply comply. We need to be in the forefront of these efforts. The Praesidium Accreditation Standards for Catholic Men’s Religious Institutes, which we endorse, are meant to help us assist victims/survivors, maintain strong safeguarding policies and safe environments, educate our members, and ensure that members who have perpetrated abuse are held accountable and kept from doing so again.
Leaders of religious communities are called to assist all members, from those just joining us to those most senior, in being committed. Compliance is simply doing what we are supposed to do. Commitment takes us to a different point, one where we work diligently to be even more vigilant and proactive in our safeguarding efforts.
Our annual Safeguarding Workshop is coming up at the end of this month. There is still time to register for the online option. This workshop is a way to deepen your understanding and commitment to safeguarding. We hope that you will join us online for informative presentations, integrating discussion, spiritual enrichment, and in-depth learning.
In prayerful solidarity,
Frank Donio, SAC
Executive Director
This is an excerpt from the October Items of Note. Items of Note is a monthly email for CMSM members and partners. If you are not receiving Items of Note once a month via email, please email [email protected].
