As Pope Francis reminds us, "In the Confiteor, we ask forgiveness not only for the wrong we have done, but also for the good we have failed to do." These words challenge the Church to acknowledge past failures, seek healing, and strengthen its commitment to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults.
Safeguarding is not merely a legal or institutional obligation; it is an essential expression of the Gospel's call to protect the dignity of every human person. The painful reality of abuse has led the Catholic Church worldwide to renew its commitment through accountability, transparency, and the creation of safer environments where every person is respected, protected, and empowered.
In Ghana, safeguarding carries particular urgency. The nation continues to confront challenges such as child abuse, exploitation, trafficking, and other forms of violence against vulnerable persons. National laws, international conventions, and the Church's own policies together affirm the responsibility of every institution to prevent abuse, respond effectively to concerns, and promote a culture of safety and respect.
Guided by the vision of Pope Francis and the work of the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors, the Church in Ghana has strengthened its safeguarding framework to ensure that the protection of children and vulnerable adults remains central to its pastoral mission.
JMJ Congregation in Ghana is committed to foster safe spaces, healthy relationships, and accountable practices. Together, we are called to create communities where every child and vulnerable adult is valued, protected, and able to flourish in dignity and hope.
Protect the safety, dignity, and well-being of children and vulnerable adults in the JMJ Ghana Region.
Equip sisters, staff, volunteers, clergy, and collaborators to identify, prevent, and respond to safeguarding concerns.
Ensure compliance with Church policies, Ghanaian law, and recognized safeguarding standards.
Foster a culture of dignity, respect, accountability, and Gospel values in every ministry.
Uphold a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of abuse, including physical, sexual, emotional, spiritual, financial, verbal, online, and abuse of power.
Create safe environments through effective planning, risk assessment, and safeguarding practices.
Require appropriate screening, background checks, and vetting for everyone working with children and vulnerable adults.
Ensure all safeguarding concerns and allegations are reported promptly to the appropriate Church, Regional, diocesan, police, and civil authorities.
Comply fully with Ghanaian laws and international child protection standards by reporting all suspected or confirmed abuse of minors and vulnerable adults to the designated civil authorities.
