Emmanuel Parish in Sebokeng Safeguarding Fun Day

by Admin · Published August 2, 2023 · Updated August 2, 2023

TOP RIGHT: Tinah Musa giving an introductory talk to Emmanuel Parish Congregants regarding Child Safeguarding Policy. TOP LEFT: Child Safeguarding Committee (from left) Ms Makhanya, Modiehi, Ms Mohlaloka, Disebo, Mr Mabaso, Isaac (PPC Chairperson), Ms Bofelo, Dineo and Ms Musa, Tinah. BOTTOM: Children receive party packs from members of St Anne Sodality.

By Mme Musa – On July 30, Emmanuel parish in Sebokeng held a Safeguarding Awareness and Fun Day at the parish. The youth of the parish performed a role-play during Mass which revolved around a young girl as she suffered mental, physical and sexual abuse at the hands of her stepfather. She watched her Mother struggle between the love she had for her daughter and the love she had for her husband while the girl suffered in silence. The storyline ended with the young girl taking her own life. It is time to break the silence on childhood sexual violence.

Parish priest Fr Lucas Bambezela Ofm blessed the Safeguarding Committee and members. After Mass children were served hotdogs by Daughters of St Anne Sodality and received party packs from members of St Anne Sodality.

Child Safeguarding Policy is instituted by Archbishop Buti Tlhagale in the Archdiocese of Johannesburg to protect children in the Catholic Church and its surroundings. Children are gifts from God – they need to be treated with respect and dignity. Despite the legislative endeavours to care for children, there are still numerous reports showing that abuse of children and vulnerable groups is on the rise. The Catholic Church commits to ensuring that children receive the treatment they deserve. Let us not perpetuate the abuse of children or hide information.