As Christians, we are all called to protect the dignity of every human person. During the month of April, we are encouraged to increase awareness, to educate ourselves and our communities and to seek healing for those who have been impacted by abuse. It is also a time to reflect on the importance of safeguarding future generations of children, taking proactive step to prevent abuse and neglect, and creating a safe world for our children.
“In our individual families and in our parishes and schools, the Lord has entrusted us with the most precious gifts: our children and youth. It is our privilege and obligation to do everything in our power to protect them and to provide a secure environment in which they can grow to maturity and come to know Jesus Christ; to know themselves as his dearly beloved disciples with a unique call to listen to his voice and follow him,” Bishop Gregory Kelly said.
In the United States, nearly 1 in 7 children experience some form of abuse or neglect. In 2022 alone, approximately 1,990 children lost their lives because of abuse. Together we can work to safeguard all children.
In the Diocese of Tyler, the Ethics and Integrity program is committed to safeguarding all those who are vulnerable. They do this by providing ongoing Safe Environment trainings and recourses to pastors, parishes and ministries throughout the diocese.
“The Ethics and Integrity program of the diocese is a means of making our commitment a reality and keeping that commitment before our eyes. Thank you for your cooperation and for your participation in this program. May God continue to strengthen us in our resolve to welcome his children, to protect them from harm, and to help them come to him,” Bishop Kelly said.
Every year the Church spreads awareness about preventing child abuse by participating in the National Blue Sunday Day of Prayer for Abused Children on the last Sunday of April. This year for Blue Sunday on April 27, 2025, remember to pray for all children impacted abuse.
Additional recourses:
- To learn more about the Ethics and Integrity program in the Diocese of Tyler visit: www.doceseoftyler.org/safeenvironment
- For more information on Blue Sunday visit: https://www.bluesunday.org/blue-sunday-day-of-prayer.
- Abuse Prevention Resources from the USCCB
