Australian Catholic Safeguarding Ltd laments the passing of Pope Francis

Australian Catholic Safeguarding Ltd (ACSL) joins Catholics around the world mourning the passing of Pope Francis.

ACSL Chief Executive Dr Ursula Stephens said that Pope Francis will be remembered for his efforts to reach out to those on the margins of society and for his willingness to confront the clerical sexual abuse crisis.

‘Pope Francis instituted concrete measures to address the crisis, including establishing the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors (PCPM) in 2014, just a year after beginning his papacy,’ Dr Stephens said.

‘The establishment of the PCPM and the increased profile of the annual International Safeguarding Conference are two major efforts supported by Pope Francis to ensure safeguarding is a front and centre issue for the global Church.’

‘In 2019 Pope Francis issued the papal letter Vos Estis Lux Mundi (You are the Light of the World), setting out procedures for the handling of allegations of abuse perpetrated or covered up by bishops and leaders.’

‘Vos Estis applies globally and is actively being used in Australia today.’

‘In 2024, under the direction of Pope Francis, the PCPM released the Universal Guidelines Framework which lays out core principles to protect children and vulnerable people from abuse.’

‘In Australia, the National Catholic Safeguarding Standards align with the Universal Guidelines Framework.’

‘As well as these institutional measures for safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse, Pope Francis demonstrated in his actions and words a determination to walk with victims and survivors of abuse in their pain.’

‘Pope Francis leaves with us a legacy of his commitment to shed light on abuse, to recognise the pain and trauma of victims and survivors wounded by sexual, physical and spiritual abuse, and to promote the dignity of everyone in the Church.’

‘As the work of safeguarding in Australia and around the world continues, we are reminded of Pope Francis’ steadfast resolve even during his sickness this year, Dr Stephens said.

‘When you establish prevention policies, even in the remotest communities, you are writing a promise: that every child, every vulnerable person, will find a safe environment in the ecclesial community’ – Pope Francis, message of the Holy Father to the participants at the Plenary Assembly of the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors, 25 March 2025.