Safeguarding becomes more inclusive, more compassionate
By Sr. Santrina Raymond, IBVM
As LCMC continues to work with various audiences, certain policies are mandatory and are observed with caution, thereby engaging relevant individuals to support the team. Fr. Faustine Binamungu, SJ delivered a transformative talk to the key communication members of the Catholic Care for the Children, as they gathered for their communication workshop at Donum Dei, recently. He shed light on a revised church document which was initially titled “Violations of the obligations of celibacy” to a new title; “Offenses Against Human Life, Dignity, and Liberty,” which marked a shift towards a more inclusive and compassionate perspective of safeguarding of children and vulnerable adults.
Father Binamungu passionately conveyed the significance of fostering a safe and welcoming environment within the CCC institutions. He said, “We may not know how important policies are until there is a problem”. He emphasized the revised document’s broader focus on upholding the inherent dignity of every individual and safeguarding their physical, spiritual and emotional well-being. He shared real-life stories of individuals and institutions that have found themselves in the safeguarding quagmire. The message touched participants who later on engaged in small group conversations sharing their related experiences. One participant shared, “In our Child Care Institution we nurture babies (0 – 3 yrs) who have no mums. In case a baby dies, the family emerges and accuses the institution for irresponsibility, despite all institutional efforts to save the child”.
The session was therefore a reminder of each individual’s contribution towards creating an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and safeguarded.
