Session on Safeguarding of Minors for the Missionaries of Africa of the Southern Africa Province (Lusaka, Zambia: 13-30 June 2025)
Saturday, June 14th 2025
Today, we commenced our training on safeguarding of minors with a solemn opening Mass, presided over by the Provincial Superior of the Southern Africa Province, Fr. Christian Mulenga. In his homily, he exhorted us to be true ambassadors of Jesus Christ in our respective mission places by earnestly protecting those entrusted to our care. Reflecting on the Gospel, he emphasized that as safeguarders, we are called to embody the values of simplicity, honesty, and integrity, virtues modelled by Christ in the Gospel of Matthew 5:33–37, where our “Yes” must truly mean “Yes,” and our “No” must indeed mean “No.”
Drawing inspiration from the psalm of the day, Fr. Mulenga further reminded us that, as protectors of the vulnerable, we are to mirror the Lord’s own compassion and graciousness. Our mission must be marked by tenderness, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to uphold the dignity of God’s people.
Fr. Pawel Hulecki, First Assistant General in charge of Integrity in Ministry, reaffirmed that safeguarding is not merely a task, it is a core mission of both the Society and the Church. He underscored that safeguarding those we serve, especially the most vulnerable, is a sacred obligation and a commitment of our missionary Society. He extended his best wishes for a deeply meaningful and fruitful training experience.
Fr. Bill Turnbull, SAP Province’s safeguarding coordinator welcomed and exhorted participants to embrace safeguarding as a collective responsibility.
Fr. Lowrent Kamwaza, Coordinator for Integrity in Ministry of the Society, provided a general orientation for the training. The highlighted four key areas: Understanding integrity in ministry through the vision and charism of our founder, Cardinal Charles Lavigerie, Exploring the dynamics of our missionary work today, Understanding the Church’s response to the abuse crisis and our Society’s commitment to safeguarding.
As we contemplate our mission in today’s context, we are reminded that, though we come from diverse regions as Missionaries, we are united in a synodal Church. We share in her mission, her joys, her wounds, and her hope for renewal. This is a moment to speak out and act decisively, so that healing may begin for victims, and justice may prevail.
Our unwavering commitment to safeguarding is embodied in our Safeguarding Policy.
In the afternoon session, we engaged in a rich exchange of experiences, insights, and aspirations concerning the safeguarding of minors, deepening our shared commitment to this vital ministry. About 30 Missionaries from the Southern Africa province are taking part to this training.
Safeguarding is our commitment
By: Okunola Michael, M.Afr., Claude Nsengiyuva, M.Afr., Eric Kambale, M.Afr., Lowrent Kamwaza, M.Afr.