Melbourne: The Catholic Church in Australia marked  Safeguarding Sunday under the leadership of the local Church, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring the safety of children and vulnerable persons.

The observance was formally inaugurated in Melbourne, where Bishop John Panamthottathil CMI released the Safeguarding Sunday poster. Present at the ceremony were Cathedral Vicar Fr. Mathew Areekplackal, Eparchy Safeguarding Training Coordinator Joby Philip, and Cathedral Parish Safeguarding Officers Rijo George and Alfred Mathew.

In a circular issued on the occasion, Bishop Panamthottathil reminded the faithful that Safeguarding Sunday is an opportunity to recommit to protecting the vulnerable. “Past mistakes cannot be undone. It is the duty of every believer to ensure that such tragedies are never repeated,” he stated.

The Bishop emphasized that safeguarding is not merely a compliance exercise but a living testimony of Christ’s commandment of love. He underlined that all Church workers must renew their safeguarding training every three years, and warned that violations of safeguarding protocols, including the zero-alcohol policy, would invite action under both civil and canon law.

According to the diocese, more than 15,000 people have already completed safeguarding training. Bishop Panamthottathil urged the faithful not to view the program as a burden but as “an opportunity for personal growth and a path toward serving others with greater care.”

Calling on the community to uphold human dignity, the Bishop added, “We must live with love and respect for every person. Every space in the Church must become a safe haven where children, young people, and adults can live without fear.”