SSpS members played a pivotal role at the International Safeguarding Conference 2026 in Rome, from moderating the general assembly to presenting culturally grounded research on protecting children and vulnerable adults.
The International Safeguarding Conference 2026, held from 16–19 June 2026 at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome, brought together safeguarding practitioners, researchers, Church leaders, and educators from around the world under the theme, “One Commitment, Many Contexts: Safeguarding Across Cultures.”
A universal commitment across diverse cultures
The theme was chosen because safeguarding is a universal responsibility, yet it is implemented within diverse cultural, social, religious, and legal contexts. The conference recognized that while the commitment to protect children and vulnerable adults remains constant, the ways in which safeguarding is understood, communicated, and practiced differ from one culture to another.
SSpS leadership and presence in Rome
The SSpS Congregation made a significant contribution to the conference. Sr. Miriam Angelika Altenhofen, SSpS, our Congregational Leader, served as the general conference moderator, facilitating dialogue and promoting meaningful intercultural exchange. Sr. Mary John Kudiyiruppil, SSpS, participated as a representative of the UISG, and Sr. Jessy George Theruvankunnel, SSpS, was present at the conference to offer her expertise in counseling.
Research from Ghana: Integrating universal principles with local values
Sr. Bernadette Dere Nulenpaala, SSpS, presented a research paper on safeguarding in the Ghanaian and Dagaaba cultural context, highlighting the importance of transparency, accountability, and compliance in fostering a culture of safeguarding. Her presentation also highlighted the need to integrate universal safeguarding principles with local cultural values in order to build safer communities where the dignity of every person is respected and protected.
Strengthening global collaboration for a shared responsibility
The SSpS participation reflected the congregation’s commitment to the Church’s mission of creating safe environments for children and vulnerable adults. The conference strengthened international collaboration, encouraged mutual learning across cultures, and reaffirmed that safeguarding is a shared responsibility requiring both global commitment and local action.
A call to begin safeguarding at home
There were approximately 298 participants from 69 nationalities. It was an enriching and challenging experience of listening and sharing different realities across various contexts, with all their difficulties, challenges, and successes. A great deal more remains to be done. But as the saying goes: charity begins at home. Let us begin safeguarding in our communities and let it flow through our call to serve in our ministries and, above all, in our vocation to life
Sr. Bernadette Dere Nulenpaala, SSpS – Province of Ghana
