The Service for the Protection of Minors of the Spanish Episcopal Conference (CEE), in collaboration with the Spanish Conference of Religious (CONFER), held in Madrid on October 17 and 18 the VIII Meeting for the Offices of Protection of Minors, under the motto “Hopeful Reasons in the Face of the Silent Cries of Abuse Against Minors”.
Over two days, those responsible for various diocesan offices, religious, and experts reflected on the prevention of abuse, attention to victims, and accompaniment to communities wounded by this reality, with the aim of consolidating a culture of protection and good treatment within the Church in Spain.
The meeting highlighted the need for a culture of protection that combines listening, speed in responses, and healing processes. It also emphasized the risks linked to the abuse of power and the urgency of clear protocols in parishes, schools, and religious communities.
Ecclesiastical Commitment
With this meeting, the Church in Spain once again publicly renews its commitment in the fight against abuse, insisting on training, prevention, and transparency. The chosen title —“Hopeful Reasons in the Face of the Silent Cries of Abuse Against Minors”— reflects the will to listen to those who have suffered in silence and to generate paths of reparation and justice.
The Service for the Protection of Minors of the CEE emphasizes that these days seek not only to respond to the wounds of the past, but to build a present and future in which the protection of minors and vulnerable persons is an unavoidable pastoral priority.