Pope Leo XIV and the Importance of Safeguarding

Whilst the keyboard warriors begin their criticism and offer their expertise, let us turn to the goodness offered already by this new Pope in his capacity as Archbishop.

In an interview with Andrea Tornelli, Editorial Director for Vatican Communications, with then-Archbishop Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, he was asked about safeguarding. His comments seem to echo the central theological thesis that was the pinnacle of Francis’ ministry, one of closeness to the flock, especially those who suffered abuse …

Tornelli: The new norms for combating abuse have increased the responsibility of bishops, who are called upon to act promptly and to answer for any delays and omissions. How is this task experienced by the bishop?

Archbishop Prevost: “We are on a journey with regard to this as well. There are places where good work has already been done for years and the rules are being put into practice. At the same time, I believe that there is still much to learn. I am talking about the urgency and responsibility of accompanying victims. One of the difficulties that many times arise is that the bishop must be close to his priests, as I have already said, and he must be close to the victims. Some recommend that it not be the bishop directly who receives the victims, but we cannot close our hearts, the door of the Church, to people who have suffered from abuse. The responsibility of the bishop is great, and I think we still have to make great efforts to respond to this situation that is causing so much pain in the Church. It will take time. We are trying to work together with the other dicasteries. I believe it is part of the mission of our dicastery to accompany bishops who have not received the necessary preparation to deal with this issue. It is urgent and necessary that we be more responsible and more sensitive to this.”

It is my prayer that, given Leo XIV is an American cardinal and the Pontifical Commission for the safeguarding of Minors is headed by his brother Cardinal in Boston, Cardinal O’Malley, that His Holiness will continue this important work and allow it to flourish and blossom. his words “to accompany bishops who have not received the necessary preparation to deal with this issue” are of particular significance, insofar as he believes in promoting understanding of safeguarding, in all areas of the world.

He speaks of being close to his victims. Let us pray that his theology is one that blends the work of Francis and Benedict so that the house of the Lord may be softened with the gentle hands of a pastor and safeguarded with the strength of wisdom, as promulgated by Benedict. 

Let us pray for Pope Leo, especially in these early days as he comes to terms with standing in the shoes of Saint Peter himself.