Addressing the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors during its plenary assembly at the Vatican, the Holy Father expressed gratitude for their work and emphasized that safeguarding minors and vulnerable people must be embraced throughout the Church as a true culture of care.

The Pope explained that preventing abuse cannot be reduced to policies or procedures alone. Rather, it requires forming a culture within the Church where the protection of children, adolescents, and vulnerable persons is seen as a natural expression of Christian faith. Safeguarding, he noted, should not be treated as an external obligation imposed on the Church but as something that flows from the Gospel itself.

Pope Leo also recalled that Pope Francis placed the Commission permanently within the Roman Curia. This decision, he said, serves as a reminder that the prevention of abuse is not optional. It is a constitutive part of the Church’s mission and must be taken seriously at every level of ecclesial life.

Central to this work, the Pope stressed, is listening to victims and survivors. Their painful experiences reveal the truth of what has occurred and call the Church to humility and conversion. By acknowledging this suffering honestly, the Church can pursue a credible path of renewal and healing while strengthening her commitment to justice and care.

The Holy Father also highlighted the importance of the Commission’s Annual Report, which promotes transparency and accountability in safeguarding efforts. Such tools help the Church evaluate progress, identify areas that still require improvement, and ensure that the protection of minors remains a priority.

Pope Leo reminded Church leaders that this responsibility cannot be delegated. Bishops and religious superiors must confront safeguarding directly and ensure that every ecclesial community takes this mission seriously. The protection of minors must find concrete expression in pastoral care, formation, and governance throughout the Church.

He also noted emerging concerns that require continued attention, including a deeper understanding of vulnerability and the growing threat of technology-facilitated abuse of minors in the digital world. These realities call for vigilance and thoughtful pastoral responses.