The general Office for the safeguarding of minors and vulnerable adults is an expression of the will of the Friars Minor to commit themselves "to living as brothers of all, respectful of the dignity of every human person". For this reason, it works to protect minors and vulnerable adults from abuse in its various forms (of power, psychic, spiritual and sexual), and for a just and compassionate response towards anyone who has directly or indirectly suffered such abuse" (Mandate no. 9 of the 2021 General Chapter).
It is the duty of the Office:
• promote and coordinate, with adequate means and initiatives, all activities for the safeguarding of minors and vulnerable adults in the realities and pastoral spaces entrusted to them to the Order, so that they can be «safe environments for all the people of God, especially for the most vulnerable" (n. 18 of the Final Document of the 2021 General Chapter);
• ensure that victims of abuse are received with respect and due attention, offering them transparent and reliable procedures;
• offer advice to those responsible in the Entities of the Order in matters relating to formation in the prevention and accompaniment of all the friars and lay collaborators in the works of the Order;
• propose to the entire Order subsidies and training programs that deepen the theological, pastoral and Franciscan dimension of listening to victims and protecting them of minors and vulnerable adults.
Recommendations for drafting a safeguarding policy and procedures for OFM
Letter concerning abuse of authority and power in the Order
Practical steps to follow when an allegation reaches the Minister or Custos
Br. Albert Schmucki, OFM
Director
Email: tutela@ofm.org
Br. Joseph Condren, OFM
Secretary
