Pope urges Caritas to prioritise Safeguarding as a commitment to Human Dignity

Pope Francis meets with directors of Caritas in Latin America and the Caribbean (Vatican Media)

Pope Francis expressed gratitude to Caritas leaders from Latin America and the Caribbean who attended a training course in Rome.

He commended their dedication to fostering a culture of care, which he termed “safeguarding.” During a private audience with the Presidents and National Directors of Caritas, the Pope reflected on the spiritual importance of safeguarding.

Speaking in Spanish, Pope Francis elaborated on the term “safeguarding,” noting its dual meaning in Spanish — custody, protection, and guarantee.

He also highlighted a lesser-known interpretation from wartime traditions, where signals marked entrances to ensure no harm.

The Pope offered a biblical reflection, citing the prophet Ezekiel and the Book of Revelation, where the Lord instructed an angel to “mark a T on the foreheads” of those lamenting injustices, likening this to Caritas’ mission.

Pope Francis explained that this symbolic marking represents recognising individuals’ dignity and inherent worth. He emphasised that safeguarding is symbolic and spiritual, describing it as a “divine name” and equating it with Christ’s presence. “It is Christ himself written on the forehead of every man and woman,” he said, urging charitable care to reflect God’s love.

The Pope prayed for attendees to remain steadfast, seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit and protection under the Virgin Mary’s mantle.

“May you learn from her to bring care and safeguarding to all people,” he concluded, emphasising the sacred nature of their work and blessing their mission to uplift those in need.