Training on the safeguarding of minors and persons in situations of vulnerability, Kigali, 7th day

The 7th day of our training was enriched by the presentations of three speakers, our confreres, Simon Ouedraogo, Vitus Abobo and Stéphane Joulain. In his presentation, Simon highlighted how incidents of cases of sexual abuse of minors are treated and handled in the Church based on the Code of Canon Law. He further explained the necessary procedures for a preliminary investigation and how false allegations of abuse are dealt with canonically.

In concluding the morning, Vitus, our webmaster, spoke to us how to handle the official email addresses related to this safeguarding ministry.

In the second session, Stéphane gave a presentation on pastoral responses and care for victims/survivors and the accused of sexual offenses. Firstly, he stressed the need to cultivate attitudes and skills to welcome, listen to and pastorally accompany victims/survivors at the time of disclosure of an abuse. And secondly, he explained how the pastoral care of abusers of minors is ensured in the Church.

Safeguarding is our commitment

By: Alex Manda, Clément Kpatcha, Guy Sawadogo, Lowrent Kamwaza (News Team)