VATICAN CITY, Rome — Citing that dignity is a gift from God who created human being(s) in His own image and semblance (cf. Gen 1:26), Pope Leo XIV conveyed to representatives of various conferences of men and women religious and numerous institutes of consecrated, apostolic and contemplative life, the need to build communities where the dignity of every person, especially minors and the most vulnerable, is protected and promoted.

The Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors concluded its Spring Plenary Assembly in Rome on Friday, March 20, marking five days of reflection, dialogue and planning focused on strengthening safeguarding practices across the universal Church.

Gathering Members and staff from around the world, the Assembly centred its work on enhancing engagement with victims and survivors, advancing global safeguarding standards and reinforcing collaboration at every level of ecclesial life.

Speaking affectionately to those gathered for Tutela Minorum that reaffirmed guidelines in the protection of minors while highlighting emerging forms of abuse, the American pontiff underscored that "(dignity) is not something that is obtained by merit or effort nor does it depend on what we possess or achieve—it is a gift that goes before us; it is born of the look of love with which God wanted us, one by one and continues to want us."

He described that "on every human face, even when it is marked by fatigue or pain, there is the reflection of the Creator’s goodness, a light that no darkness can erase."

"The care and protection of man for his neighbour are the fruit of a gaze that is able to recognize, a heart that knows how to listen. They are born of the desire to approach with respect and tenderness, to share the other’s burdens and hopes. It is in taking responsibility for the life of our neighbour that we learn true freedom, that which does not dominate but serves, does not possess but accompanies," the pope stressed.
Leo likewise emphasized that "consecrated life, an expression of total self-giving to Christ, is called upon in a special way to be a welcoming home and a place of encounter and grace."

"Those who follow the Lord in the way of chastity, poverty and obedience discover that authentic love is born of recognition of one’s own limit: of knowing that one is loved even in weakness and it is precisely this that makes one capable of loving others with respect, gentleness and a free heart," he enthused.

"I therefore appreciate and encourage your intention to share experiences and learning processes on how to prevent all forms of abuse and how to give an account, with truth and humility, of the steps taken to protect minors. I urge you to continue this commitment so that communities may increasingly become examples of trust and dialogue, where every person is respected, listened to, and valued. Where justice is lived with mercy, wounds are transformed into openings for grace," he added.

In ending his message, Leo invited attendees to continue (. . .) collaboration with the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors, which promotes and accompanies with dedication the growth of the whole Church in the culture of protection.

"I entrust you to Christ, Shepherd and Spouse of the Church, and to Mary Most Holy, Mother of every consecrated man and woman, and I cordially impart my blessing to you all," he blessed the gathering.