The Diocese of Hong Kong is taking a significant step towards enhancing child protection mechanisms with the establishment of the Diocesan Safeguarding Minors and Vulnerable Persons Office – St. Goretti’s Centre, set to be operational in 2025.
This initiative aligns with global Church efforts to fortify safeguards for children and vulnerable individuals, according to Sunday Examiner, the official news service of the Bishop of Hong Kong.
On August 25, the Diocesan Catechetical Centre hosted a training seminar at St. Jude’s parish in North Point, specifically designed for Sunday school teachers and catechists.
The training focused on creating a secure and supportive environment for children and vulnerable members of the community.
Fr. Dominic Lui Chi-man said the initiative adheres to both Hong Kong law and Church regulations to bolster current systems. “We invite you to join us as guardians of the children and the vulnerable,” he added.
The choice of St. Maria Goretti as the patron saint of the centre underscores its mission. Goretti, a young martyr who forgave her assailant, symbolizes the dual call for prayer for both victims and offenders.
“We all want the victims to learn from the healing spirit of Jesus so that they will continue to live with a belief in God and become a pilgrim seeking him,” said Fr. Lui.
“We know that it is not easy for the victims to be hurt, as it challenges their faith, their hope, and even their love, and it may be very difficult for them to express their love to others,” he added.
The priest acknowledged the Catholic Church’s ongoing crisis with sexual abuse. The Church’s previous failures in handling such cases have included inadequacies in understanding perpetrator psychology and the impacts on victims, with an often misguided focus on protecting the Church’s image over victim welfare.
In response to these issues, Pope Francis instituted a “zero-tolerance” policy outlined in his 2019 Apostolic Letter, Vos Estis Lux Mundi.
This policy mandates comprehensive measures including prevention through training and guidelines, and intervention through robust reporting systems and cooperation with legal authorities.
The centre aims to develop a more robust protection system within the diocese, involving training, guideline drafting, and complaint management.
As part of this international learning exchange, Father Lui, along with Precious Blood Sister Anne Yau, plans to acquire specialized diplomas in Rome to further their expertise in safeguarding practices.
Highlighting legal aspects, centre member and solicitor Davis Hui discussed the stark reality of child abuse within the Church globally, including local cases.
He outlined the legal responsibilities and forthcoming changes, such as the mandatory reporting ordinance for professionals set to take effect in 2026.
Mandatory training for catechists and other volunteers is also on the agenda, aiming to prevent potential abuse through proactive measures.
The diocese seeks to gather feedback on these initiatives through seminars and consultations with church members.
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