UNITED STATES
Canonical Consultation
02/09/2015
Jennifer Haselberger
Earlier today, the Holy See’s Press Office issued a news release about the work of the Plenary Assembly of the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors, which held its first meetings this past weekend. According to the statement, the Commission approved an initial proposal regarding accountability for bishops who fail to uphold their obligations to create a safe environment.
‘The Commission is keenly aware that the issue of accountability is of major importance. In its Assembly, members agreed on an initial proposal to submit to Pope Francis for consideration. Moreover, the Commission is developing processes to ensure accountability for everyone in the Church – clergy, religious, and laity – who work with minors.
Part of ensuring accountability is raising awareness and understanding at all levels of the Church regarding the seriousness and urgency in implementing correct safeguarding procedures. To this end, the Commission also agreed to develop seminars to educate Church leadership in the area of the protection of minors.’
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