Religious superiors from around the world meeting in Rome to prevent abuse

ACI Prensa Staff, Nov 7, 2023 / 18:30 pm

The Unions of Superiors and Superiors General (UISG-USG) have organized an in-person workshop taking place in Rome from Nov. 6–10 with the aim of “creating a culture of protection within religious congregations.”

A total of 132 representatives of the 90 male and female religious congregations are participating in the event and are members of the Union of Superiors General (USG) and the International Union of Superiors General (UISG). The Fraterna Domus community, on the outskirts of the Italian capital, is hosting the event.

According to Vatican News, this is an “unprecedented opportunity” for religious leaders and their congregational protection delegates from around the world “to learn, share experiences, and collaborate to promote a safe and inclusive environment” in their respective institutions.

The workshop focuses especially on caring for minors and adults in vulnerable situations. The organization explained that the event revolves around several key points, such as creating a culture of protection through protection and prevention; providing detailed information on abuse of minors and vulnerable adults; giving victims a voice, allowing them to share their stories; increasing knowledge about abuse prevention practices; and exploring ways to respond to these problems.

The workshop includes speakers of international relevance in the field of protection and prevention of abuse.

“Situations of abuse are a serious problem that we must address, and this workshop represents an opportunity to learn how to create safe environments for the members of our congregations and the people we serve,” said Brother Emili Turú, secretary general of the USG, co-organizer of the event.

Sister Mary John Kudiyiruppil, undersecretary of the UISG, said: “We are delighted to see that so many people from around the world have decided to join us in this very important event.”

The UISG and the USG bring together the superiors general of the Religious Institutes and Societies of Apostolic Life of pontifical right. Both organizations seek to “promote the life and mission of each institute at the service of the Church for a more effective reciprocal collaboration and a more fruitful contact with the Holy See and the hierarchy.”

This story was first published by ACI Prensa, CNA’s Spanish-language news partner. It has been translated and adapted by CNA.