Pope Urges Caritas: Safeguarding is Your Vocation to Uphold Human Dignity

Vatican, January 15, 2025: In a private audience held in Rome, Pope Francis expressed his gratitude to the Presidents and National Directors of Caritas in Latin America and the Caribbean, who were attending a training course. The Pope thanked them for their dedicated work in consolidating processes to foster a culture of care, which he referred to as "safeguarding."

He explained that in Spanish, the term "safeguarding" is understood as "custody, protection, guarantee," but also carries a deeper meaning. He likened it to a military signal used in times of war, where commanders place a mark at the entrances of towns or homes to protect them from harm.

Drawing from the Bible, the Pope recalled the prophet Ezekiel and the Book of Revelation, where the Lord commands His angel to "Mark a T on the foreheads of the men who sigh and lament over all the abominations that are committed." He explained to the Caritas leaders that “It is Christ himself written on the forehead of every man and woman and, like a mirror, in the heart of each one of us who, in our fragility, wish to be bearers of his love through small acts of charity and care.” He stressed that this act symbolizes recognizing the dignity of every person as a brother or sister in Christ.

Further emphasizing the sacred nature of safeguarding, Pope Francis said it is a divine mission, highlighting that safeguarding is not only about protection but also about embracing the Lord's command to "Do not touch my anointed ones."

He concluded by praying for the Caritas leaders, asking that the Holy Spirit guide their work and that the Virgin Mary cover them with her mantle, teaching them to bring care and safeguarding to all people.

Courtesy: Vatican News