ABOUT US
The St. Joseph Safeguarding Centre represents a monumental step forward in the Catholic Church’s commitment to protecting minors and vulnerable persons in India. Established on September 8, 2021, the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Centre operates under the auspices of the Catholic Bishops Conference of India (CBCI) as a response to Pope Francis’ Motu Proprio, Vos Estis Lux Mundi (You are the Light of the World), promulgated in 2019 to address sexual abuse within the Church.
Founded through the initiative of His Eminence Cardinal Oswald Gracias, President of the CBCI and member of the Holy Father’s Task Force for implementing safeguarding laws, the Centre is located at the Archbishop’s House Extension in the Eucharistic Congress Building, Colaba, Mumbai.
VISION
To foster and promote a culture of safety, care, and respect in all Church-run institutions across India.
MISSION
The Centre’s mission is encapsulated in four key areas:
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Sensitisation: Raising awareness about safeguarding responsibilities.
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Awareness: Educating clergy, laypersons, and Church workers on safeguarding laws and best practices.
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Prevention: Establishing and promoting systems and policies to prevent abuse.
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Reconciliation: Supporting healing and justice for survivors.
OUR ROLE
The St. Joseph Safeguarding Centre serves as a national hub for training, guidance, and support in safeguarding efforts across India. It provides:
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Training in the new procedures outlined in Vos Estis Lux Mundi.
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Support for dioceses in establishing their own safeguarding centres.
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Education and resources for Church workers, teachers, and laypersons.
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A focus on healing, reconciliation, and building safe environments within Church institutions.
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As one of only two safeguarding centres in Asia, the St. Joseph Safeguarding Centre is dedicated to becoming a beacon of hope and inspiration, not just for the Church but for society at large. Through its efforts, the Centre aims to ensure that the dignity and safety of every individual, especially the most vulnerable, remain at the heart of the Church’s mission.
A PLACE OF SIGNIFICANCE
Inaugurated and blessed by Cardinal Gracias, the Centre draws inspiration from the Blessed Virgin Mary, who embodies grace in vulnerability. The inauguration, held on the “Day of the Girl Child,” highlights the Centre’s commitment to addressing the challenges faced by girls, women, and vulnerable persons in society.
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OUR LEADERSHIP TEAM
The Centre is spearheaded by a
distinguished team of leaders and professionals:
Sr. Arina Gonsalves
Executive Secretary, a member of the Pontifical Commission
for the Protection of Minors.
Fr. Jervis D’Souza
Secretary of the Social Apostolate of the Archdiocese of Bombay
Board Members
Experts from diverse fields, including moral theology, law enforcement,
women’s rights, psychology, and pediatrics.