Krakow: The Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors convened its plenary assembly this week in Krakow, Poland, under the leadership of its newly appointed President, Archbishop Thibault Verny. The assembly, held from September 30 to October 3 at the Shrine of Divine Mercy, marks a historic first for the Commission: it is the first time a plenary session has taken place outside Rome since the body’s establishment in 2014. Archbishop Verny opened the assembly by emphasizing the Commission’s mission in clear terms: “Welcome and listen to victims, heed the truth, and prevent abuse, to ensure that the Church becomes more and more a safe home.”
Krakow was chosen not only for its spiritual significance the city was once shepherded by Pope St. John Paul II, who prayed for God’s love to shine “in a world full of violence and uncertainty” but also as a continuation of the synodal path of protection initiated in the Polish Church in 2021. The venue, the Shrine of Łagiewniki, is nationally renowned as the resting place of St. Faustina Kowalska and draws millions of pilgrims annually, making it a symbolic center for reflection on mercy and care.
In his address at the opening Mass, presided over by Archbishop Marek Jędraszewski, Archbishop Verny reflected on the Commission’s eleven-year history. Established by Pope Francis to combat abuse in the Church, the Commission continues its mission under Pope Leo XIV. Archbishop Verny highlighted the core objective: “To protect children and vulnerable persons and, in doing so, to proclaim the Gospel through our actions and our way of being with them.” He stressed that this mission requires close collaboration with local Churches, walking alongside them, listening, supporting, and encouraging their safeguarding efforts.
A key initiative in this endeavor is the Commission’s Memorare Initiative, which provides training and practical resources to dioceses worldwide. Archbishop Verny noted that hosting the plenary in Krakow demonstrates the Commission’s commitment to local communities, offering guidance on implementing safeguarding policies, responding to complaints, and caring for victims and their families. These efforts are systematically measured, evaluated, and made transparent through annual reports; the Commission is set to release its second report soon, reflecting ongoing progress in safeguarding practices.
Archbishop Verny concluded his address with a prayer echoing the words of St. John Paul II, invoking God’s mercy to sustain hope and courage amid challenges. “Eternal God… look kindly upon us and increase your mercy in us, that in difficult moments we may not despair or grow discouraged, but with great confidence may submit ourselves to your holy will,” he prayed, underscoring the spiritual foundation of the Commission’s work.
The assembly brings together all members of the Pontifical Commission, including experts from lay and consecrated communities and survivors of abuse themselves. While much of the week will be spent in closed plenary sessions, several public moments are planned, including engagements with the Polish bishops. A comprehensive press release detailing the outcomes of the assembly will be issued at the conclusion of the sessions.
This Krakow gathering reaffirms the Commission’s dedication to fostering a culture of protection within the Church, ensuring that the safety and dignity of children and vulnerable adults remain at the heart of its mission worldwide.